The GPhC has started informal discussion on its future policy and standards for pharmacy premises. Formal consultation is expected later in 2011 but responses should be made now to their information document. Comments are invited on the registration criteria that may be appropriate for different kinds of pharmacy, on standards for superintendents and owners, inspections and areas where detailed standards (formerly issued by RPSGB) are not planned.

A further “informal” consultation has been published arising from the review of medicines legislation.This seeks views on how to bring eligible homeopathic PLRs within a relevant regulatory scheme, to address the future of the Product Licence of Right (PLR) regime and clarify the position as regards efficacy of homeopathic products. Consultation closes on 18th February 2011.

A consultation, launched informally by the MHRA on 21st January seeks comment on guidance about the licensing and advertising of homeopathic products. Consultation closes 18th February 2011.

Consultation on proposal to remove the restriction on pharmacists registered in GB by virtue of an EEA or Swiss qualification, being the responsible pharmacist for a pharmacy which has been registered for less than three years. An order under section 73 of the Medicines Act is proposed. Further legislation will be needed to remove the restriction on “visiting pharmacists” (on a temporary or occasional basis) from the EU. Closes on 7th April 2011

Several consultations were published in late November and December 2010 with response dates of 31st March 2011. These include:Funding and commissioning routes for public health; Developing the Healthcare workforce; Proposals for a public health outcomes framework and a Review of the regulation of public health professionals.

A White Paper “Healthy Lives, Healthy People: Our strategy for public health in England” sets out the Government’s long-term plans to give local public health leadership and responsibility to local government. A new dedicated service – Public Health England – will be established under the provisions of the latest Health and Social Care Bill, expected to be enacted in April 2012. Consultation closes 8th March 2011.

A further informal consultation, as part of the review and consolidation of medicines regulations, has been issued by the MHRA. This includes opportunities to respond on reducing regulatory burdens, on the pharmacy exemption for wholesaling and revisions of sections 64, 85 and 86 in relation to dispensing errors. Consultation closes on 22nd December 2010.

The MHRA is consulting (MLX 372) on proposals for amendments to the range of medicines that can be supplied by podiatrists and to revoke the exemption from licensing for unlicensed herbal remedies. Consultation closes on 17th January 2011