Infant Feeding 2025-07-01

Opened the debate

It is a pleasure to bring this Adjournment debate to the Chamber on a topic close to my heart. I refer hon. Members to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests as the Chair of the all-party parliamentary group for infant feeding. When the Secretary of State for Health promised to create the “healthiest generation ever”, it was a bold and admirable ambition, but there is little substance in the critical years from birth to three when it comes to policy around infant feeding. The hon. Member highlights how important it is to have that community-based support in an area. Unfortunately, not every mother across the UK can say the same.

Government Response

The Minister acknowledges the importance of infant feeding support and recognises the challenges faced by new parents. She highlights the need to improve access to community-based support groups, acknowledging that not every mother across the UK has this option available. The Government are committed to improving services and ensuring that all parents have access to informed choices about infant feeding methods. They will continue to work with stakeholders to address the issues raised regarding formula companies' marketing practices and the financial burden on families. Acknowledges the concerns raised about infant feeding and marketing practices. Confirms that breastfeeding is critical to a baby’s healthy growth, and families need quality services and trustworthy information. Commits to supporting mothers who wish to breastfeed by addressing complex barriers they face. Emphasises the importance of midwives and maternity services in preparing and supporting families during pregnancy and beyond. Mentions an increase of over 1,300 full-time equivalent midwives since April 2024 and plans for a refreshed workforce plan. Announces the launch of a national independent investigation into maternity and neonatal care to recommend actions by December. A national taskforce will then co-produce a national plan to drive improvement. Highlights the importance of health visitors in supporting families transitioning from maternity services to community care, despite declines in numbers. Committed to strengthening health visiting services so that all families can access support. We have provided £18.5 million this year to improve infant feeding support across 75 local authorities in England, aiming to offer seamless and tailored support through family hubs, hospitals, and the voluntary sector. Local authorities are embedding infant feeding strategies with partners, building up workforces, and training staff to identify complex needs early. Although long-term evaluation is needed, there are promising findings such as increased breastfeeding rates in Coventry. We also help families access 24-hour support through the National Breastfeeding Helpline. Recognising that not all families can or choose to breastfeed, we welcome the CMA report into the UK infant and follow-on formula market, which highlights issues around brand reputation and price influence on parent choices. The Government supports the CMA's recommendations to eliminate brand influence in healthcare settings, provide better information for parents in retail settings, strengthen labelling and advertising rules, and ensure effective enforcement of regulations. We aim to have a UK-wide response available as soon as possible, considering these alongside colleagues in the devolved Governments.