Brendan Ryan (Labour)

I move amendment No. 8:

In page 11, after line 45, to insert the following subsection:

"(3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2)(a)(ii), the Society's duty under that provision shall include determining and applying criteria for registration which require compliance with any codes of conduct drawn up for pharmacists and undertakings to comply with such codes.".

I think there is a need for a clearer and more explicit statement of the need for codes of conduct to apply to the profession. I accept that such codes are mentioned earlier in this section, but the reference should be somewhat more explicit. The determination of codes of conduct should be a clear part of the functions of the society. Section 7(2)(a)(iii) states that one of the duties of the society will be to "draw up codes of conduct for pharmacists". I propose not only that such codes be "drawn up for pharmacists and undertakings" but also that those who will be bound by them will have to "comply" with them. I am somewhat wary of voluntary codes of conduct. I am well aware of the glorious joys of the operation of the drinks industry's voluntary code of conduct in relation to the advertising of alcoholic drinks. I do not suggest that there are any similarities between the two industries. Codes of conduct should be enforceable.