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MEP
queries high cost of pet medicines in the UK
Theresa Villiers - Conservative Member of the European Parliament
for London - has tabled some formal written parliamentary questions
to the European Commission demanding to know why British consumers
pay so much more to treat their pets than those in the rest
of the EU.
Speaking from the European Parliament in Brussels, Theresa Villiers
said, "Many constituents are very concerned about the costs
of drugs and medicines to treat animals in the UK. It is reported
that the costs have risen by 40% in the last seven years and
that costs continue to rise by about 11% a year."
Theresa Villiers continued, "Vaccinations in the UK routinely
cost £10.00 more than elsewhere in the EU. For example
a course of vaccinations for a puppy costs over £50 in
the UK, compared with only £26.00 in Spain. I am also
asking the European Commission to consider why it is, that pet
owners are forced to buy medicines from vets rather than pharmacies.
I am concerned that this practice may have implications for
the level of competition over the supply and distribution of
such treatments."
"I am demanding that the European Commission fully considers
my questions and informs British consumers why they are being
ripped off, simply for being pet owners."
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