Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Young women are experiencing long wait times for endometriosis diagnosis, some waiting over a decade. The Government has committed to updating the women's health strategy.
Endometriosis care is in urgent need of reform. Too many young women have waited more than a decade for a diagnosis and share horror stories with me as their symptoms are not taken seriously by the system. Given the Government’s commitment to update the women’s health strategy, can the Minister confirm that menstrual health conditions such as endometriosis will be prioritised?
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for all her campaigning on this issue. We are committed to prioritising women’s health. We have commissioned studies focused on endometriosis diagnosis, treatment, and patient experience, alongside six research trials totalling an investment of approximately £5.8 million. This will be part of our 10-year health plan.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Supreme Court ruled that sex means biological sex, affirming women’s rights. There are concerns about the delay in releasing guidance.
In January, the Supreme Court ruled that sex means biological sex—a victory for women’s rights. However, there is concern over delays in releasing Equality and Human Rights Commission's (EHRC) guidance despite no legal changes being necessary. Will the Minister release this guidance to ensure women’s rights are protected?
We are committed to protecting single-sex spaces. The Supreme Court ruling provides clarity, which providers should follow. We are working through the EHRC’s code of practice. Any suggestion of delay is incorrect; we must consult devolved Governments. A full regulatory impact assessment has not been required.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or release date for guidance
Delay
Consultation
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Public awareness levels for dyspraxia are still low, despite it being a common condition.
Dyspraxia is a common condition but public awareness is too low. Does the Minister agree more needs to be done across Government and society to raise awareness?
Yes, I do. We want a more inclusive society supporting neurodivergent people, including those with dyspraxia, to thrive. Across Government, we are working on earlier intervention in schools through the partnerships for inclusion of neurodiversity programme and special educational needs reforms.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Children with special educational needs and disabilities face difficulties accessing education due to rural nature of the area.
Due to West Dorset’s rural nature, children with special educational needs and disabilities have difficulty accessing education. A young girl who had a stroke lost her transport two days before starting school. Will the Minister work across Departments to solve this issue?
We recognise the concern raised by the hon. Gentleman, which many Members have highlighted. We will set out plans to improve the system through the schools White Paper. Contributions from the hon. Gentleman and his colleagues are welcome as we prioritise children's interests.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or timelines for addressing rural SEND access issues
Planning
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The Night Angels volunteer group provides safety for young women in Stroud.
A volunteer group called the Night Angels patrols streets and trains to provide safety for young women. Will the Minister support this group? Would she like to join us on a patrol wearing their pink fluorescent jackets?
The Minister for Women and Equalities is already wearing a pink jacket. I pay tribute to the group in my hon. Friend’s constituency. The Under-Secretary of State for Justice, Alex Davies-Jones, will visit Stroud soon and offer to wear the pink jacket on our behalf.
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Assessment & feedback
Minister's direct involvement with Night Angels patrols
Delegation
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
Deaf individuals face fragmented systems in health, education, and welfare that create barriers.
Meeting with representatives from the Royal National Institute for Deaf People highlighted issues faced by deaf people navigating siloed health, education, and welfare systems. What steps is the Minister taking to coordinate cross-departmental support for deaf individuals?
The hon. Lady raises an important point. I would be happy to arrange a meeting with the relevant Minister to discuss her concerns, ensuring action is taken across Government to address them.
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Assessment & feedback
Immediate actions or plans for coordination
Future Planning
Response accuracy