INFORMATION FROM ANIMAL OWNERS REQUESTED BY THE COMPETITION COMMISSION

The Competition Commission (CC) wants to hear from individual users, and especially pet owners, about their experiences with prices and the supply of animal medicines.

Denise Kingsmill, CC Deputy Chairman, who is heading the inquiry, said:

"We have been asked to look at the price of animal medicines prescribed by vets. At this early stage of the inquiry we are establishing how this market works.

"Pet owners make up at least half of the market. Farmers are well represented by their various associations but pet owners do not have a collective voice. Therefore, in inviting comments from all users of animal medicines, we are especially keen to hear from pet owners about their experiences in connection with prices and the supply of animal medicines. We would urge them to look at our website and if they have something to say to get in touch with us via email or letter. We want to make sure that consumers have a voice and their views are very important to us".

As well as owners of companion pets such as cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, etc, the CC is also keen to hear from owners and keepers of animals that may be found in zoos, aquariums, aviaries, kennels, catteries, equestrian stables and rescue centres.

Information can be sent either via the online form on the CC website (www.competition-commission.org.uk/inquiries/vetmed.htm), by email vetmedicines@competition-commission.org.uk, or by letter to The Reference Secretary (Veterinary Medicines), Competition Commission, New Court, 48 Carey Street, London WC2A 2JT

Notes to Editors

This reference was made under sections 10(3), 10(4), 47(1), 49(1) and 50(1) of the Fair Trading Act 1973, on 9 October 2001 (see OFT Press Notice 41/01).
Manufacturers and suppliers were sent questionnaires in December 2001. Further questionnaires will be sent to wholesalers and vets in January 2002, and hearings and site visits will take place during January and February.
"Prescription-only veterinary medicines" means medicinal products that are subject to an order under section 58 of the Medicines Act 1968 and which may be sold only by veterinary surgeons or veterinary practitioners for administration to animals under their care or by pharmacists on a written prescription from a veterinary surgeon or veterinary practitioner.
"Medicinal product" means a product falling within either section 130 of the Medicines Act 1968 or Article 1.2 of Council Directive 65/65/EEC.
"Veterinary surgeon" and "veterinary practitioner" have the meanings given to the terms by section 132(1) of the Medicines Act 1968.
Further information can be found on the Commission website at www.competition-commission.org.uk
Enquiries should be directed to Francis Royle, Press Officer Tel: 020 7271 0242