Medical Cannabis 2021-06-08
2021-06-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue of medical cannabis access is ongoing, with parents and patients facing difficulties in obtaining necessary treatment. The question arises from the Minister's meetings on this topic.
What recent progress has been made to ensure that medical cannabis is accessible under prescription? I have discussed concerns with the hon. Member and met many families dealing courageously with difficult conditions. My immediate priority was resolving supply of Bedrocan oil from the Netherlands. Further meetings are planned for other issues.
I have discussed these concerns with the hon. Member and met many families dealing courageously with difficult conditions. My immediate priority was resolving supply of Bedrocan oil from the Netherlands. Further meetings are planned to make progress on other issues in this incredibly complex situation.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for recent progress details is not fully addressed, focusing instead on general sympathy and future plans without concrete actions or timelines.
Under Review
Planning Further Meetings
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question builds on previous discussions about medical cannabis, focusing on two issues: cost to patients and the need for an update on clinical trials from the MHRA.
Patients still need to pay for their medicines despite small numbers. Can the research be expedited for free provision on NHS? Also, why is there a delay in getting updates on clinical trials and licence application?
Progress has been made with Dr June Raine from MHRA to discuss research evidence. A national patient registry was introduced to record data on licensed and unlicensed cannabis-based medicines, aiming for wider coverage soon. The Minister is focused on ensuring the right decisions for families but prioritises safety.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask regarding cost and MHRA update is partially addressed without concrete actions or timelines.
Under Review
Focused On Safety
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Secretary of State faced allegations that the delay in putting India on the red list was to secure a trade deal, despite higher positivity rates. This delay now has serious consequences.
Given figures from Test and Trace contradicting claims about positivity rates, will the Minister publish all data and advice supporting decision-making for transparency?
Positivity rates were three times higher from Pakistan than India when decisions were made. Decisions are kept under constant review, acting only with correct information; following data on variants is important.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for publication of all data and advice is completely avoided.
Changing Subject To Positivity Rates
Stating Decisions Under Constant Review
Response accuracy