All 1 Debates between Marion Fellows and Gary Streeter

Tue 19th Jan 2016

Cancer Drugs

Debate between Marion Fellows and Gary Streeter
Tuesday 19th January 2016

(8 years, 10 months ago)

Westminster Hall
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts

Westminster Hall is an alternative Chamber for MPs to hold debates, named after the adjoining Westminster Hall.

Each debate is chaired by an MP from the Panel of Chairs, rather than the Speaker or Deputy Speaker. A Government Minister will give the final speech, and no votes may be called on the debate topic.

This information is provided by Parallel Parliament and does not comprise part of the offical record

Marion Fellows Portrait Marion Fellows
- Hansard - -

Where cost is a factor in prescribing drugs it is important that we consider ways of lowering it. The pharmaceutical price regulation scheme could be used. When a drug’s spending threshold is reached, a rebate is paid. In England, it goes back to the Treasury but in Scotland it goes on to further new drugs.

The delisting of cancer drugs because of cost causes untold heartbreak to patients and families—the very people we all represent—and the time has come to find a way of making new drugs accessible to, and affordable for, the NHS by considering arrangements such as multi-year budgeting, which would allow for a lower initial price. Pharmaceutical companies would hopefully be open to that in exchange for getting their drug into use at an earlier stage.

It is important to understand that drug companies fund drug development research for years before they even know if the drug is worth licensing. Many potential drugs fall by the wayside and, as the public purse would never be able to fund such a level of risk, it is necessary that pharmaceutical firms see a return on their investment, to secure ongoing research. That goes back to why some drugs are delisted because of their cost. However, there must also be recognition of the support provided by universities in Northern Ireland and Scotland, and in England, which get Government funding to help towards researching new drugs.

Off-patent drugs can also be used in cancer treatments, usually through repurposing. It is important that we consider that, as it could also lead to a cost—[Interruption.] I am sorry, I will just wind-up my speech. Some of the barriers to treatment can, however, be broken down through negotiation between all interested parties. The aim would be a system that worked equitably for all stakeholders, from patients, doctors and the NHS to Governments and the pharmaceutical industry.

Gary Streeter Portrait Mr Gary Streeter (in the Chair)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

As a Front Bencher, the hon. Lady has 10 minutes if she wants them, so she should need not rush her important peroration.

Marion Fellows Portrait Marion Fellows
- Hansard - -

It is fine. Thank you, Mr Streeter. I managed to get through my speech, with a rush at the end.

Gary Streeter Portrait Mr Gary Streeter (in the Chair)
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

Thank you very much. I call Andrew Gwynne.