The group was formed in 1999, with the stated aim of raising awareness of the pharmacy profession and to promote pharmacists' contribution to the health of the nation.  In order to achieve this, the group holds inquiries into areas of interest to the profession of pharmacy.  The group will hold meetings, and will also invite expert speakers to provide their views and opinions on a particular topic.  Meetings are generally held in public, with invited guests normally including various members of the medical profession, other health experts and indeed members of the Government. 

Following on from such meetings, the group will prepare a report on the subject it has investigated, the findings of which will be presented to ministers in an effort to influence policy decisions.  This in effect means that the group operates in a similar manner to a select committee.

Dr Stoate is Chair of the All Party Pharmacy Group.

If you would like more information on the workings of this group then you can visit the website of the group at www.appg.org.uk