The story 

The debate on student numbers has been a long-running affair. Fears over an oversupply of pharmacy graduates prompted the government to consult in 2013 on whether to control university intakes. The answer from the pharmacy sector was a resounding yes. So, after taking nearly a year to carefully consider the responses in October, the government announced its intention to leave student numbers to run wild and free. Universities minister Greg Clark said a cap on pharmacy school intakes was simply “not necessary”.  

The reaction 

Unsurprisingly, the overwhelming reaction was bewilderment and anger. C+D readers branded Mr Clark’s decision “crazy” and “a joke”. This anger was only compounded by the government’s refusal to explain the reason behind its announcement – simply saying it had considered “sources of evidence” other than the consultation. The mysterious evidence remains to be seen. All in all, it’s little surprise that 75 per cent of C+D readers voted the government move the biggest disappointment of the year – putting the lack of progress on decriminalisation and the flat funding settlement in the shade.

Your shout. What has been the biggest disappointment of the year?

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“The government’s objective for pharmacy is to ensure a sustainable supply of pharmacy graduates, both to work in the NHS and the wider economy. This is best achieved by not limiting the number of students"

Greg Clark, universities, science and cities minister

 

"Next time he [Mr Clark] is sent a report in relation to pharmacy, please ensure there are lots of pictures for him to colour in. He’s very good with crayons, apparently. Mostly blue"

Duncan Livingstone, C+D reader

 

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Buck’s Fizz glass half full:

The government will fund businesses to employ second pharmacists on a wide scale, soaking up the excess of pharmacy graduates. Failing that, it will realise the error of its ways and decide to actually read the responses to its consultation.  

Buck’s Fizz glass half empty:

The number of pharmacy students will continue to rise inexorably, driving up the number of unemployed graduates and driving down wages. Young pharmacists with time on their hands will unite in sending Mr Clark numerous novelty caps, in the vague hope that he responds better to symbolism than written communication.

 

Christmas disco dedication

Just give me a reason by Pink

Note to Mr Clark: mysterious “other sources of evidence” do not
a reason make.