Government moves to relax the rules governing pharmacies have prompted concerns that some smaller shops could be forced to close.

The proposed overhaul of the prescription rules, announced by health minister Rosie Winterton, could lead to the approval of internet and mail order pharmacies.

The move will also pave the way for large supermarket-run out of town chemists and 24-hour pharmacies.

Ministers believe that in a 24/7 economy patients must have greater access to drugs.

Reform of the planning rules will allow pharmacies to be located in shopping centres over 15,000 square metres, provided they are away from town centres.

New one-stop primary care centres will offer "a wide range of primary care and community based services" in addition to the usual GP services.

But under the rules pharmacies which pledge to open more than 100 hours per week must stick to this commitment.

Death knell

Community pharmacies and those in rural areas have warned that the switch could sound the death knell for local chemists used by the elderly and the infirm.

John D'Arcy, chief executive of the National Pharmaceutical Association, said there was "real concern" about how parts of the new rules would operate in practice.

"What we mustn't have is 'deregulation through the back door'," he said.

"The opening of new pharmacies under the new exemptions could serve to suck business away from existing pharmacies.

"If this happens, existing pharmacies may be forced into reducing the level of services on offer. And in extreme cases, existing pharmacies may be forced into closure."

Balanced approach

Defending the government's policy, Winterton said she was striking a balanced approach.

"These reforms continue to support the government's aim to put the needs of patients first, ensuring that local health services reflect the changing lifestyles and needs of patients," she said.

"We are maintaining the vital role played by community pharmacies, particularly in poorer and rural areas, many of whom are small businesses.

"We are determined to improve access to, and the choice of, pharmacy services and to encourage innovation and excellence so that community pharmacy is recognised as a key player in the provision of NHS services.

"These reforms will provide an environment in which community pharmacy services can thrive."

The Liberal Democrats said that if community pharmacies were threatened some patients would lose out.

"Small, independent pharmacies may be squeezed out, restricting consumer choice," said health spokesman Paul Burstow.

"For pensioners, and those without a car, it may become more difficult to find a local chemist."