A recent report commissioned by the British Government has revealed an alarming increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a phenomenon due largely to overuse and misuse of antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine and to the failure to make headway in developing new options for treating infections.

The study shows that an increase in AMR could cause the death of nearly 10 million people in 2050, more than the current death toll for cancer (8.2 million) or diabetes (1.5 million). In economic terms, antimicrobial resistance is estimated to cost — globally — up to USD 100 000 billion.

Parliament has spoken out several times about the rising threats from AMR: in particular, it has called for more clear-cut responses to encourage efficient use of antibiotics so as to reduce resistance as far as possible and pointed to the importance of concentrating efforts on research, prevention, and cooperation among Member States (2012/2041/(INI)).

1. Has the Commission considered the figures in the British Government report and assessed the findings?

2. In addition to the proposals submitted in September on veterinary medicines and medicated feed, does it plan to draw up other legislation relating directly to AMR where human medicines are concerned?