Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Steve Brine and Michael Fabricant

Tuesday 27th November 2018 Commons Chamber

[Steve Brine]

I have been itching all morning while thinking about this answer. I do not believe there is an epidemic because of NHS England’s actions. Clinical experts in the NHS advise that head lice can be safely and effectively treated by wet combing; I have very recent personal experience of doing this, as I am sure do many parents in this House. Chemical treatment is recommended only in exceptional circumstances. I had not heard of the charity the hon. Lady mentions, but as we discussed before questions, I am happy to facilitate that interaction.

[Michael Fabricant (Lichfield) (Con)]

In France, where head lice are more common per capita than in the UK, people make good use of pharmacies, because it costs money to visit a general practitioner and because the state promotes the role of pharmacies. May I therefore ask the Minister why do we not advertise that we should be using pharmacies more often than not, instead of going to a GP?

--- Later in debate ---

[Steve Brine]

I do not know whether my hon. Friend is familiar with wet combing his hair.

[Michael Fabricant]

Only with my gel.

[Steve Brine]

Only with his gel. He is absolutely right that, as the Secretary of State just said, community pharmacies are experts in so many minor health matters, and Pharmacy First can absolutely be used when it comes to head lice as well.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Steve Brine and Michael Fabricant

Tuesday 23rd October 2018 Commons Chamber

[Michael Fabricant (Lichfield) (Con)]

17. What steps his Department is taking to tackle antimicrobial resistance and inappropriate use of antibiotics; and if he will make a statement.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Steve Brine)]

We continue to make good progress against our 2013 AMR strategy ambitions. According to the latest figures, since 2013, antibiotic prescriptions dispensed by GPs have decreased by 13%, and sales of antibiotics for use in food-producing animals dropped by 27%.

[Michael Fabricant]

That is encouraging to hear because antimicrobial resistance is caused by the excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics. Given that we have a Matt Hancock app, should not we have a similar app to try to educate people about when it is appropriate and not appropriate to use antibiotics?