91996E1237

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1237/96 by Amedeo Amadeo (NI) to the Commission (23 May 1996)

Subject: Vets

The differences between the provisions in force regarding the prescription of veterinary medicinal products in the various Member States give rise to:

1. considerable trafficking of such products;

2. residues which interest the consumer in particular and are not subject to any controls.

In the same way, differences in provisions continuing training means that, in some Member States, there are courses which are not recognized throughout the Community.

Does the Commission not consider that it would be useful to harmonize both the prescription requirement for veterinary medicinal products, and the provisions on continuing training?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission (24 June 1996)

The Commission has no knowledge of any trafficking in veterinary medicinal products caused by differences regarding the prescription of veterinary medicinal products. It will gather the necessary information and consult Member States regarding the possibility of introducing harmonized Community provisions for the prescription requirement for veterinary medicinal products.

The Commission does not envisage the need to harmonize continuing training for veterinary surgeons; indeed, in the majority of Member States, this is considered to be more of an ethical obligation.