The government is backing a review which recommends the introduction of two new groups of prescribers - independent and dependent prescribers.

Independent prescribers are those who make an initial diagnosis and dependent prescribers are those who prescribe drugs once a diagnosis has been made, for instance they can issue a repeat prescription.

Until now, nurses have been able to prescribe only on the basis of agreements made with a doctor.

This is what currently happens with child vaccinations.

Ms Mowlam said: "Nurses will no longer have to rely on doctor's advice or on group protocols.

"They will be able to use their own judgement."

Only specially trained nurses would be given the new powers.

The Royal College of Nursing welcomed the government's recommendations, which are out for consultation until June to ensure the support of all professionals involved in making it work.

RCN general secretary Christine Hancock said: "Extending prescribing to nurses is cost effective and saves time for patients who can get started with their treatment more quickly.

"It is also common sense because in many cases nurses are the experts in the management of conditions such as diabetes and asthma."

However, Ms Hancock said she was concerned that there were no immediate plans for putting the recommendations in place.

"There are patients who could benefit now," she said.

The RCN has been campaigning for over a decade to extend prescribing powers to nurses.

They say it is an essential development in the creation of a truly primary care led NHS.

Northern Ireland tribute

Mo Mowlam paid tribute to nurses in Northen Ireland

Ms Mowlam used her speech, which drew two standing ovations, to pay tribute to nurses working in Northern Ireland.

She said the fall-out from the troubles had added hugely to what was aleady a very stressful job.

She said after the Omagh bomb many nurses from the north and south, including retired nurses, had innundated hospitals in area with offers of help.

She said nurses were of "phenomenal importance" to bringing peace to Northern Ireland.