Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what plans he has to reduce the potential impact of (a) Pharmacy First and (b) pricing of NHS drug tariffs on community pharmacies.

The Government recognises that pharmacies are an integral part of the fabric of our communities, as an easily accessible ‘front door’ to the National Health Service, staffed by highly trained and skilled healthcare professionals.

In 2025/26, the funding for the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework was increased to £3.1 billion. This represents the largest uplift in funding of any part of the NHS, at over 19% across 2024/25 and 2025/26. There is also additional funding available, for example, for pharmacies delivering Pharmacy First consultations and flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, supporting pharmacies to continue to deliver a full range of services and support for their community.

As is custom and practice, the Department will consult Community Pharmacy England on any proposed changes to future reimbursement and remuneration of pharmacy contractors shortly.