HC Deb 03 December 2002 vol 395 cc751-2W
Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the amount of over-prescribing of antibiotics in the NHS; and if he will make a statement. [84802]

Ms Blears

We have no direct evidence of over-prescribing of antibiotics in the National Health Service. Data from the prescription cost analysis system show that the number of prescriptions dispensed in the carers, including any extra support needed by carers in paid employment. This will be emphasised in the forthcoming revision of the hospital discharge workbook.