Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

NHS Dentistry: Salford and Eccles

19 December 2022 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Rebecca Long-Bailey Lab Salford and Eccles

NHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rebecca Long-Bailey raised concerns about nhs dentistry: salford and eccles in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Rebecca Long-Bailey highlighted severe crisis in NHS dental services, citing a report stating NHS dentistry faces existential threat.
  • MP cited chronic underfunding from 2010 to 2020 and disparity in funding compared to other UK regions.
  • Minister acknowledged challenges and announced steps taken, including 1.7 billion for income protection and 50 million to increase urgent care capacity.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Rebecca Long-Bailey Lab Salford and Eccles

Rebecca Long-Bailey highlighted the severe crisis facing NHS dental services, citing a British Dental Association report that states NHS dentistry is under existential threat. She provided examples of constituents unable to access necessary dental care due to financial constraints or lack of availability. The MP emphasised chronic underfunding from 2010 to 2020 and the disparity in funding compared to other parts of the UK. Long-Bailey also criticised the current target-based NHS dental contract, which she believes is leading to an exodus of dentists. She urged for fundamental long-term reform of the dental contract and stressed the importance of prevention measures like supervised brushing and water fluoridation schemes.

Other contributors (1)
  • Neil O'Brien Con unknown constituency

    Acknowledged the ongoing difficulties with access to NHS dental care in some areas, noting that variations existed even before the pandemic.

Government Response

Rosie Winterton

The Minister responded by acknowledging the challenges faced by NHS dentistry and announced steps taken during the recovery from the pandemic. Over £1.7 billion was provided in income protection to retain capacity, with an additional £50 million allocated at the end of last year to increase capacity for urgent care. The minister highlighted a 43% increase in children seen by NHS dentists compared to the previous period and noted ongoing efforts to address acute problems in specific areas.

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