HOMEOPATHY IN FRANCE

That this House notes that the Science and Technology Committee's Evidence Check on Homeopathy report failed to take note of homeopathy's widespread use in France; further notes that around a third of the French population use homeopathic medicine; further notes that almost all French pharmacies dispense homeopathic remedies and its use is covered by state social security; observes that in 2004 62 per cent. of French mothers used homeopathic medicines in the previous 12 months and that a survey of French pharmacists in 2004 found that 94.5 per cent. reported advising pregnant women to use homeopathic medicines; further observes that 70 per cent. of doctors are receptive to homeopathy and consider it effective and that at least 25,000 doctors prescribe homeopathic medicines for their patients; acknowledges that homeopathy is taught in at least seven medical schools, namely Besancon, Bordeaux, Lille, Limoges, Marseille, Paris-Nord, and Poitiers, and that courses in homeopathy are taught in 21 of France's 24 schools of pharmacy, two dental schools, two veterinary medical schools, and three schools of midwifery; and calls on the Government to look at the experiences of other countries when formulating health policy in the UK.