Dr Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the vaginal mesh implants scandal, if he will take steps to require (a) medical personnel who are consultants to firms making medical products that they propose to use for their patients (i) declare their interest and (ii) draw their patients' attention to such a declaration when recommending the use of those products and (b) victims of that scandal of whatever age do not have to pay prescription charges for medication required to treat their resultant injuries and symptoms.  [73682]

[Due for Answer on 20 July. Answered on 22 July.] 

HOLDING ANSWER: The Department of Health and Social Care has indicated that it will not be possible to answer this question within the usual time period. An answer is being prepared and will be provided as soon as it is available.

ANSWER

The Minister of State for Mental Health, Suicide Prevention and Patient Safety (Ms Nadine Dorries): The General Medical Council already has guidance covering financial and commercial arrangements and conflicts of interest, which all medical practitioners must adhere to and which came into effect on 22 April 2013. We will consider whether these arrangements should be strengthened.

National Health service prescription charge exemptions are in place to help those with greatest need.

The Government will consider the recommendations in the First Do No Harm report published on 8 July very carefully.