Policy and politics

MPs call for urgent review into medicines shortages

A letter from 45 cross-party MPs has urged the government to look into medicines shortages to ensure patients have their “life-saving medications”.…

The pharmacy regulator needs to fix its fitness-to-practise delays before asking for more cash

This month, our health policy columnist sets out why the General Pharmaceutical Council’s ‘Oliver Twist’ act over professional fees is out of step.…

David Taylor (1946–2025)

Lauded as an “instrumental” figure in UK pharmacy by his peers, David Taylor held a broad range of influential teaching and public health policy roles during his career.…

Where are the voices of pharmacy professionals in the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill?

As Kim Leadbeater MP’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill proceeds through its committee stage, the pharmacy professions are among the key stakeholders whose voices are notably absent.  The committee process should provide a rigorous examination of draft legislation, not only listeni…

PJ view: Palliative care must not be forgotten if assisted dying legislation progresses

It is imperative that policymakers strike a careful balance between assisted dying and palliative care to provide patients with the best possible support.…

First minister says Pharmacy First will expand to cover more clinical conditions

John Swinney’s comments came in a speech on improving public services and NHS renewal, delivered at an event at the National Robotarium in Edinburgh.…

Spotlight: Palliative care access

In this ‘Spotlight’ episode of The PJ Pod, we consider the current state of palliative care and how it could be improved to ensure equitable access.…

Government opens negotiations on community pharmacy contract

Pharmacy minister Stephen Kinnock said he will work closely with Community Pharmacy England to agree a package of funding that reflects “the important support” community pharmacy provides to patients.…

A 2.8% pay uplift recommendation reflects a tough economy for everyone

In this month’s health policy column, Andy Cowper warns that high gilts and low growth may mean pay parsimony for pharmacists, but questions whether more NHS strikes would have public backing.…

Evaluation report of community pharmacy clinical services delayed until spring 2025, says NHS England

Exclusive: NHS England said the delay is to avoid releasing an incomplete report, which could infer inaccurate suggestions relating to the pharmacy sector and damage patient confidence.…