§ Mr. CummingsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has 701W received concerning the OFT report on Pharmacies from community based pharmacies; and if she will make a statement. [111205]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonWe have received numerous representations from community pharmacies and other stakeholders regarding the OFT report on the control of entry regulations and retail pharmacy services in the UK.
In relation to England, the government has said that we favour change to open up the market and improve quality and access without diminishing the crucial role that pharmacies play, especially in poorer and rural areas. The Government intends to come forward with a balanced package of proposals for consultation before the summer recess.
The regulations on pharmacy entry controls are devolved in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and the devolved administrations announced their responses to the OFT's recommendations on 26 March.