From Mr M. G. J. Cooper, MRPharmS
SIR,-The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain was founded by a group of leading chemists and druggists in 1841, its aims being to unite the pharmacy profession into one body to protect its members' interests and advance pharmacy education and scientific knowledge.
Although the Society has advanced pharmacy education and legislation over the past century, it has failed the majority of its members who are engaged in community and hospital pharmacy in neglecting to negotiate on their behalf with the Government regarding National Health Service remuneration.
Unlike the British Medical Association, which has exploited its united position, the Society abdicated its responsibililities to the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee with the result that dispensing doctors get the cost price of drugs plus 10 per cent whereas pharmacy contractors get the cost price less 10 per cent clawback.
It is time the Society assumed the leading role in all matters relating to pharmacy.
M. G. J. Cooper
Manningtree, Essex