Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department plans to align medicines spending growth with NHS budget growth in real terms.

The allowed rate of growth for branded medicines is established by the 2024 Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicines Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG).

The VPAG plays an important role in delivering improved health gains from medicines in the National Health Service across the United Kingdom, by securing rapid access to new medicines, supporting economic growth, and contributing to a financially sustainable health service.

We are taking decisive action to review the scheme to unlock innovation and drive investment in the UK's world-class pharmaceutical sector.

This review is ongoing, demonstrating our commitment to creating an environment where this innovative sector can thrive.