MPs to discuss veterinary medicines black market, NI access and rising prices with regulator
MPs will question the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) on its enforcement against counterfeit drugs, maintaining access to medicines in Northern Ireland and policies to improve consumer choice and price transparency.
The VMD published its first inspections and enforcement report in March. It found a 700% increase in reports of counterfeit flea and tick treatments, and ongoing concerns about black market sales of prescription‑only medicines via social media and other non-authorised retailers. The cross-party Committee is likely to ask witnesses (full details below) about the scale of the problem, their engagement with social media companies, and their ability to stay on top of the illegal trade.
With the VMD covering both Britain and Northern Ireland, it simultaneously oversees two distinct regulatory regimes due to NI still being covered by EU law. MPs may ask what challenges this complexity poses to the organisation, including as it deals faces resourcing and recruitment difficulties in specialist subjects.
Meeting details
The panel is also likely to be asked about access to veterinary medicines in NI amid reports that access is currently being propped up by limited stockpiles. A House of Lords Committee said shortages would pose serious risks to both animal and public health. There are also concerns of some lower-strength antibiotics being substituted for higher-strength versions because of cost and access issues, which could increase risks of anti-microbial resistance.
MPs will be interested to hear the VMD’s thoughts on a 2023 Competition and Markets Authority report that made recommendations on improving price transparency and consumer choice. The VMD broadly welcomed the report but urged that changes must not create pressure on vets to prescribe cheaper medicines rather than those clinically appropriate. It also warned that requiring written prescriptions for ongoing treatments could increase the risk of misuse and prescription fraud.
The VMD has a range of roles, including monitoring and acting on reports of adverse events from veterinary medicines; testing for residues of veterinary medicines or illegal substances in animals and animal products; authorising companies to sell veterinary medicines; and controlling how veterinary medicines are made and distributed.