Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Diethylstilbestrol: Intergenerational Impact

29 June 2026 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Jessica Toale Lab Bournemouth West

NHS

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jessica Toale raised concerns about diethylstilbestrol: intergenerational impact in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP highlighted long-term health impacts and intergenerational consequences of DES exposure
  • Jan Hall's case was cited, detailing cervical cancer and fertility issues linked to maternal DES use
  • Minister apologized on behalf of the Government and noted actions to raise awareness among health professionals

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Jessica Toale Lab Bournemouth West

The MP highlighted the long-term health impacts and intergenerational consequences of DES, a drug prescribed to pregnant women in the past. She shared testimonies from individuals affected by DES, including Jan Hall who developed cervical cancer and experienced fertility issues due to her mother's DES exposure. The speech emphasised the need for research, awareness among NHS professionals, and targeted screening. Jessica Toale called on the Government to commit to uncovering the truth about what happened through a statutory inquiry, supporting research into long-term effects, raising awareness, assessing tracking feasibility, and introducing targeted screening and monitoring for those at risk.

Other contributors (2)
  • Not specified

    The MP thanked Jessica Toale for her intervention.

  • Not specified Lab

    The MP paid tribute to campaigners and acknowledged the need for more action in raising awareness among NHS professionals, ensuring appropriate clinical pathways, and involving those affected in research efforts.

Government Response

Preet Kaur Gill

The Minister reiterated an apology on behalf of the Government for those affected by DES. She highlighted actions taken to raise awareness among health professionals and improve understanding through a systematic evidence review at the University of Exeter. The Minister acknowledged the importance of screening and involving women in this work. She discussed efforts made by the MHRA to establish regulatory action and locate records related to DES use, while noting significant challenges in retrieving records from past decades. The minister committed to working with campaigners to address gaps identified and ensure proper support for those affected.

Get updates like this by email
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy