HL Deb 16 December 2003 vol 655 cc138-9WA
Baroness Finlay of Llandaff

asked Her Majesty's Government: What data are available on the number of prescriptions written in England for English residents, but taken to chemists in Wales to dispense so as to avoid prescription charges. [HL288]

Lord Warner

The data available in England are in respect of the total number of items prescribed in Wales and dispensed in the community in England. Data in respect of items prescribed in England and dispensed in Wales are a matter for the National Assembly for Wales.

Baroness Finlay of Llandaff

asked Her Majesty's Government: How the Department of Health is working with the National Assembly for Wales to avoid abuse of free prescriptions for under 25 year-olds in Wales. [HL289]

Lord Warner

The Department of Health has regular contacts with the National Assembly for Wales at all levels on a wide range of health issues. However, prescription charges and exemption arrangements within Wales are a matter for the National Assembly itself.