To ask the Secretary of State for Health what restrictions there are on the bringing into the UK of non-prescription medical drugs purchased by individuals on the internet; whether the Government have any plans (a) to tighten these restrictions and (b) to impose the enforcement of existing restrictions; and if he will make a statement. (156069)

Under the Medicines for Human Use (Marketing Authorisations Etc.) Regulations 1994, it is unlawful for medicinal products for human use to be marketed, manufactured, imported from a third country, distributed and sold or supplied in the United Kingdom except in accordance with the appropriate licences or exemptions.

Medicinal products for human use that are brought into the UK by an individual for his or her own use or that of a member of his/her family, including those purchased via the internet or by mail order, are not regarded as being imported for sale or supply within the UK and accordingly are not subject to the controls of the Marketing Authorisation Regulations. Any onward sale or supply, however, would place the product on the market and bring it within the regulatory system designed to protect public health and safety. There are no plans at this time to change the legislation.