The Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed the appointment of Seema Kennedy as the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health and Primary Care, with responsibility for pharmacy.

Commenting on the appointment, Chair of the RPS English Pharmacy Board Sandra Gidley said:

“We look forward to meeting the new minister and continuing to engage constructively with the Government on how pharmacists’ expertise will be central to achieving the ambitions of the NHS Long-Term Plan. The public deserves to benefit from making better use of pharmacists’ skills.

“I hope the minister will build on her predecessor’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of pharmacy staff, as we ask them to play an increased role in supporting the nation’s health.”