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National Health Service Reserve Staff
24 November 2020
Lead MP
Alan Mak
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
NHSDefenceEmployment
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Alan Mak raised concerns about national health service reserve staff in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Proposes a Bill to establish a system of reserve National Health Service staff. Highlights the role volunteers played during the coronavirus pandemic, noting over 750,000 people signed up as NHS volunteer responders and collectively completed more than 1 million tasks. Emphasises the need for a formal national reservist structure within the NHS similar to other emergency services like armed forces reserves, police special constabulary, and fire service retained firefighters. Outlines roles of clinical and non-clinical volunteers in the NHS Reserves, including providing general cover during emergencies or seasonal increases in demand. Mentions ongoing support from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Alan Mak
Con
Havant
Proposes a Bill to establish NHS Reserves, highlighting current volunteering efforts during the pandemic, existing volunteers' contributions, and the necessity of formalising these roles. Advocates for equal status and appropriate training for reservists as their regular counterparts.
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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.