PHARMACEUTICAL WHOLESALING

Early day motion 501, tabled 13 December 2006 by Jim McGovern (Labour). Signed by 45 members.

That this House supports the current system of pharmaceutical wholesaling, which has ensured prompt delivery of pharmaceuticals, competition which keeps prices low and a flexible supply chain; is seriously concerned that the decision by major pharmaceutical companies, such as Pfizer and AstraZeneca, to undermine this system and distribute their drugs outside the wholesale market could lead to the collapse of the market; is further concerned that without the wholesale market prices for pharmacists might rise; is worried that these new distribution contracts will place pharmaceutical distribution in the hands of a very small number of national wholesalers; and asks the Department of Health to take a close look at these new deals and to act to ensure that any new deals do not harm pharmacists or patients.

Signatures by party: Labour 33, Liberal Democrat 7, Conservative 2, Scottish National Party 2, DUP 1.