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Professor Anthony Harnden has officially commenced his role as chair of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). During his first 100 days, Professor Harnden plans to engage extensively with MHRA staff and partner organisations to gain a strong understanding of "how to drive forward the strategic direction of the MHRA to maintain the UK as a global centre of excellence in life sciences, in the best interests of patients and the public." The new MHRA chair has highlighted three primary areas of focus: Protect patient safety through robust safety surveillance systems Embrace risk-proportionate regulation Foster an inclusive workplace where people flourish. With a 40-year career in the NHS, including 33 years as a general practitioner in Wheatley, Oxfordshire, Professor Harnden brings a wealth of experience to the role. He is a professor of primary care at the University of Oxford. Until December 2024, he was also a registrant council member of the General Medical Council and chair of the Remuneration Committee.

In just three days, three well-established pharmacies were sold in Essex -Dips Chemist and Riverview Pharmacy in Grays, and Longfield Pharmacy in Maldon. According to specialist business property adviser Christie and Co, Dips Chemist and Riverview Pharmacy were included in a wider portfolio sale following their entry into administration in 2023. Both pharmacies, which collectively dispense an average of circa 14,000 items per month, have been acquired by Primary Health Solutions Ltd, an independent pharmacy operator led by Husain Master. "These two pharmacies are the perfect addition to my existing portfolio," said Master, who plans to increase the services offered as well as invest in the pharmacies to create a more clinical and welcoming environment. Mark Page, director - Pharmacy at Christie and Co, highlighted that there's an appetite for a full range of pharmacies in Essex and the Northern Home Counties, with many buyers looking to take on well-performing pharmacies or purchase a quieter pharmacy that can be improved.