Drug firms are pushing up their prices amid preparations for a no-deal Brexit, as the health secretary charters a plane to airlift urgent medication to the UK.

Pharmacies warned that drugs prices are soaring, amid attempts to build up a stockpile ahead of Britain’s departure from the EU.

They highlighted spiralling prices for a number of drugs, some of which have seen prices hiked six-fold in a matter of months, as the industry prepares for the growing risk of a no-deal Brexit.

They include medication for psychosis, which has seen a rise from 62 pence a pack to £3.16 in just six months, and some types of prescription painkillers, which have gone from £2.08 to £13.70 since March.

The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee - which represents pharmacists - warned of a surge in the number of drugs which were now being reimbursed at special rates, above the standard national tariff, amid growing shortages.

In a letter to Dr Sarah Wollaston, chairman of the Commons health committee, the chief executive of the committee, raised particular concern about contingency plans for a no-deal Brexit.

Warning of rising numbers of generic drugs which are no longer available at standard prices, Simon Dukes said stockpiling, Brexit planning and attempts to make contingency plans were among the factors which could be causing the surge.