§ Brian CotterTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what framework regulates(a) mail order and (b) internet based pharmacies; what monitoring his Department undertakes of their activities; and if he will make a statement. [135397]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton[holding answer 30 October 2003]: Mail order and internet-based pharmacies are governed by the provisions of the Medicines Act 1968 and, if they provide national health service pharmaceutical services, by the NHS Act 1977. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Medicines Act and related legislation which regulate the sale and supply of medicines. The MHRA does not routinely monitor internet-based pharmacies. However, its enforcement group investigates any allegations of illegal activity of which it is made aware.
In addition, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain is responsible for inspecting all pharmacy premises for registration purposes under the Medicines Act, including mail-order and internet based pharmacies. Its code of ethics and standards sets out the further professional standards required of remote delivery and on-line pharmacy services including safe and secure transportation and delivery of medicines, patient confidentiality, provision of information and advice and record keeping.