GLUTEN-FREE PRESCRIPTIONS

Early day motion 1123, tabled 29 March 2017 by Lord Beamish (Labour). Signed by 20 members.

That this House recognises that people with coeliac disease, for whom the only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet for life, must have access to gluten-free prescriptions to maintain their health; notes that without access to prescriptions the most vulnerable people, those on low incomes, the elderly and those with mobility problems, will suffer most as confirmed by independent research; considers that the potential health risk to patients, including osteoporosis, infertility and cancer of the small bowel, may cost the NHS more in the long run; calls for the maintenance of gluten-free prescriptions on the NHS; and further calls for the consideration of a national gluten-free prescribing scheme for England and renewed efforts to improve recognition of coeliac disease by primary care health services.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, Scottish National Party 4, Labour/Co-operative 2, DUP 1, Independent 1.