← Back to House of Commons Debates

Health and Social Care Update

18 March 2021

Lead MP

Matthew Hancock

Debate Type

Ministerial Statement

Tags

NHSSocial CareEmploymentForeign AffairsMental Health
Other Contributors: 36

At a Glance

Matthew Hancock raised concerns about health and social care update in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Government Statement

NHSSocial CareEmploymentForeign AffairsMental Health
Government Statement
The Minister announced significant funding to support the NHS and social care in their recovery efforts post-COVID-19. He highlighted the progress of the vaccination programme, reaching over 25 million vaccinations within 100 days and committing to offering vaccines to all adults by July end. The minister addressed concerns about supply delays from Pfizer and Serum Institute of India and reassured that there will be no cancelled appointments or weeks without first doses in April. He also mentioned Gibraltar's completion of its vaccination programme ahead of schedule. Additionally, the statement included £6.6 billion funding for NHS recovery, £594 million towards safe hospital discharge, £341 million to support adult social care, and a commitment to building 40 new hospitals and hiring 50,000 more nurses.

Shadow Comment

Jon Ashworth
Shadow Comment
The Shadow Secretary of State expressed concerns about the delays in vaccine supply affecting younger age groups' vaccination timelines. He questioned the guarantee for second doses within the stipulated timeframe and the impact on easing lockdown stages. He also raised issues around vaccine hesitancy, potential need for booster jabs, mental health support, cancer targets, and NHS pay cuts despite funding announcements.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About House of Commons Debates

House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.