MPs from across the political spectrum have expressed deep concerns over the pharmacy chain Jhoots, accusing it of widespread operational failures, including unpaid wages, long-term store closures, and possible violations of controlled drug regulations.
In an urgent question session in the House of Commons on October 15, Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello called for immediate ministerial intervention, warning that Jhoots’ service breakdown is leaving patients without essential medications and pushing staff into financial distress.
Operating around 150 branches throughout England, Jhoots has faced months of patient and staff complaints. Morello highlighted closures in Lyme Regis and Bridport lasting several months, depriving thousands of access to necessary medicines and straining nearby pharmacies.
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More alarming are reports that employees have gone unpaid for months despite receiving payslips and tax deductions. Some staff recruited under skilled worker visas have been left without income or support, forcing many to rely on food banks and community aid.
Morello also raised serious concerns about the mishandling of controlled drugs, alleging their removal without correct documentation—a potential breach of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Responding, care minister Stephen Kinnock condemned any failure to pay staff as “completely and utterly unacceptable.” He described the situation as unprecedented within the pharmacy sector and stressed that while most pharmacies provide excellent care, Jhoots’ services have “fallen well below the mark.”
Kinnock confirmed that Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) have issued breach notices to Jhoots branches, and enforcement actions are underway in collaboration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). He noted that pharmacies repeatedly breaching NHS terms of service could ultimately be removed from the pharmaceutical list, though this process can be lengthy due to appeals.
To mitigate medication access issues, ICBs are temporarily enabling local dispensing doctors to help affected patients.
On staff payment concerns, Kinnock emphasized that pharmacy employees are employed by private businesses, not the NHS, and disputes should be addressed through the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS). He announced a governmental review of the regulatory framework overseeing pharmacy business owners in collaboration with the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA).
Other MPs echoed concerns. Sadik Al-Hassan, MP for North Somerset and a pharmacist, reported closures of two Jhoots branches in Portishead, with unpaid bills, rent, and staff wages. He warned that such behaviour risks tarnishing the reputation of community pharmacies.
Simon Hoare, Conservative MP for North Dorset, expressed safety worries for the sole staff member left at a closed Jhoots branch in Shaftesbury, where controlled drugs remain onsite. He urged the minister to take bold action despite fears of judicial review.
Richard Foord, MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, criticized the government’s response, citing a former Jhoots employee who had gone unpaid for three months. Kinnock defended ongoing regulatory and support measures but stressed disputes must be handled through ACAS and the PDA while offering governmental support to hold Jhoots accountable.
Sarah Dyke, MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, highlighted the financial strain on community pharmacies, particularly in rural regions. She questioned government plans to ensure the resilience and accessibility of local pharmacy services.
Kinnock reiterated the commitment to strengthen regulation of pharmacy business owners, acknowledging that current frameworks are inadequate and that the Jhoots case has illuminated these gaps. He promised expedited enforcement measures where clear breaches occur.
Ultimately, Jhoots may be removed from the list of NHS pharmacy providers if improvements are not made, though the process may face delays due to legal challenges. The minister assured that pharmacies failing to remedy breaches will be struck off the pharmaceutical register.
MPs welcomed plans for a joint meeting involving all affected parties to provide timely updates and support to concerned constituents.
Kinnock concluded by affirming that pharmacies, as private entities, are responsible for appropriate business conduct and patient safety, and that regulatory actions will be taken where necessary to protect the public.