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Written question asked by Lord Dodds of Duncairn (Democratic Unionist Party) on Thursday, 8 January 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 January 2026. It was answered by Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Labour) on Tuesday, 20 January 2026 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.


Antimicrobials: EU Action

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to mitigate the effects in Northern Ireland of a potential EU ban on the sale of antimicrobial drugs without prescription.

Answer

The EU has not yet formally approved or published a final legal text, I am however aware of the potential impacts of restrictions on the sale of antimicrobial medicines without prescription on Northern Ireland's health services, particularly demand for GP appointments. The Government has raised this issue and we will, as ever, always advocate for the interests of Northern Ireland.

The Government will publish an explanatory memorandum in due course in accordance with the usual processes.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL13382
Session
2024-26
Subjects
EU action Northern Ireland Antimicrobials
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk