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<p>We have interpreted the noble Lady’s question as referring to the degradation of
antibiotics in the environment. The United Kingdom is working with the pharmaceutical
industry, water industry, research institutes and across Government to address the
issue of antibiotics in the environment, as part of both the UK’s five year National
Action Plan on antimicrobial resistance and response to the European Commission’s
Strategic Approach to Pharmaceuticals in the Environment report. Work is still at
the evidence-gathering stage but it is anticipated that research will include looking
at occurrence and behaviour of antibiotics in the environment, which may include degradation.
Findings will feed into evidence-based policy to inform potential solutions, which
may include more prudent prescribing, better waste management and a drive towards
greener manufacture and development of pharmaceuticals.</p>
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