HC Deb 07 February 2001 vol 362 c572W
Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of the average cost of medicine the prescription charge represented in the latest year for which figures are available. [149338]

Ms Stuart

For the 12 months January to December 1999, the prescription charge represented 44 per cent. of the net ingredient cost of chargeable items.

Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what proportion of all prescriptions are provided free. [149333]

Ms Stuart

Around 85 per cent. of all prescription items dispensed by community pharmacists and appliance contractors are dispensed free of charge.

Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimates he has made of the income profile of people who purchased pre-payment certificates. [149332]

Ms Stuart

No such estimates have been made.

Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of the adult under 60 years old population do not have to pay prescription charges. [149334]

Ms Stuart

It is estimated that around 20 per cent. of the population aged between 18 and 60 do not have to pay prescription charges.