PRESS RELEASE

31 March 2003

THREAT TO LOCAL PHARMACIES IS TAKEN UP BY CROYDON SOUTH MP

Richard Ottaway, Conservative MP for Croydon South, has written to junior Trade and Industry Minister Melanie Johnson to raise his and his constituents concerns about proposals that would threaten the future of local pharmacies.

Mr Ottaway has received hundreds of letters, cards and signatories to petitions about proposals that are being considered by the Government which would allow unrestricted opening of pharmacies able to dispense NHS prescriptions.

Commenting on the proposal Mr Ottaway said:

"Whilst this might sound like a good idea, small local pharmacies are very concerned that every supermarket would open a pharmacy which would in turn put a huge strain on small community pharmacies.

"Local pharmacies provide a valuable service to the elderly and sick who do not want to have to traipse down to the supermarket every time they need to get a prescription, a headache tablet or advice from a pharmacist.

"I believe that in considering these proposals, Ministers must pay careful attention to their impact on local communities.

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