Written question asked by Tim Loughton (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 January 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 February 2005. It was answered by Baroness Winterton of Doncaster (Labour) on Thursday, 3 February 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if he will make a statement on recent interruptions in the supply of diamorphine.

Answer: Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on recent interruptions in the supply of diamorphine. [210221] Ms Rosie Winterton: Immediately before Christmas, Chiron, the major supplier of diamorphine injection in the United Kingdom, informed the Department that its supplies of this product were limited. It is unlikely that the company will be able to supply more for some months. The other supplier, Wockhardt UK, continues to produce diamorphine and has increased its production. The Department and the National Health Service Purchasing and Supply Agency are working closely with manufacturers of alternative medicines to ensure that patients receive the care they need. They are monitoring the position very closely until the supply of diamorphine returns to normal and will be taking whatever action is necessary to secure the supply of alternative medicines for the management of pain.

Secondary information