| answer text |
<p>We are aware that some wholesalers and pharmacies have reported challenges in importing
a range of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use. It is clear that
for some products, long lead times and delays in receiving export licences from the
authorities in the country of manufacture, have led to delays in the supply against
prescriptions and pose a potential risk to patients receiving their medicines on time.</p><p>The
Department, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the Home
Office, NHS England and NHS Improvement are in the process of agreeing what action
can be taken to help alleviate these delays, including exploring mechanisms to allow
licensed wholesalers to hold a small reserve stock linked to an evidenced demand by
specialist prescribers; and ensuring that the United Kingdom meets its obligations
under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. Any changes will be reflected in the
guidance published by the MHRA.</p><p>In the meantime, the Home Office and the MHRA
are treating all import requests for cannabis-based products for medicinal use as
emergency supplies and on receipt of the correct documentation, applicants can expect
a decision within a few working days.</p><p>No meetings have taken place with representatives
of patient groups concerning the reported delays to imports of cannabis-base products
for medicinal use. Officials did meet with patient groups in the development of this
policy when the previous Government rescheduled cannabis-based products for medicinal
use under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
|
|
