RIGHTS OF VETERINARY SURGEONS TO PRESCRIBE AND DISPENSE MEDICINES

Early day motion 1605, tabled 16 July 2003 by Alistair Carmichael (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 26 members.

That this House regrets the written statement made by the Department of Trade and Industry on 9th July in response to the Competition Commission's report into supply of prescription-only medicines published on 11th April; notes that at present only 400 veterinary practices in the United Kingdom offer services for large animals; further notes that removing the sole right of veterinary surgeons to dispense prescription-only medicines will reduce this number and increase the cost of veterinary services to the agricultural community; and notes that the Competition Commission's proposals if implemented risk thwarting the Government's own intention of using veterinary surgeons in farm animal practices as the first line of defence in combating the spread of animal disease.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 17, Labour 4, Conservative 2, Labour/Co-operative 2, Scottish National Party 1.