Commenting as the Health Secretary warned doctors to be prudent about prescribing antibiotics as part of the fight against infections, Liberal Democrat Health spokesperson Ross Finnie MSP said:

“Last month we warned that prescriptions of drugs which can increase the risk of patients contracting C. difficile had increased. Experts recommend restricting their use, but January’s figures showed a 30% increase in one of these drugs.

“I’m pleased that the Scottish Government is responding to these figures, but the ongoing Public Inquiry into C. difficile should also consider this.”