Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Hughes report, published on February 7, 2024, highlighted issues related to sodium valproate scandal redress. Cat Smith has been campaigning for 10 years on this issue.
I welcome the new Minister to his post. I have been campaigning on this issue for 10 years and have a stack of letters and answers to written parliamentary questions that say things like “in due course” and “the Government are considering”. On behalf of a group of people who have been gaslit by the medical profession, will the Minister step up and be the Minister who ensures that these families, victims of the sodium valproate scandal, actually see the redress they absolutely deserve? Will he make sure that they get a meeting with him at the earliest opportunity?
I thank my hon. Friend for all her tireless work, campaigning and advocacy on this issue for many years, particularly since the Hughes report was published in February 2024. Like me, she will be sensitive to the fact that we are coming up to the two-year anniversary of that report. It is a call to action for me and the Department to answer the questions that she has been asking for so long. I have a meeting with the Patient Safety Commissioner very shortly, and I am very happy to meet her separately when she wishes.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister committed to holding meetings but did not provide a specific timeline or concrete action plan for redress.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The Hughes report focused on issues related to sodium valproate and pelvic mesh in England, but these issues affect individuals across the United Kingdom.
The Minister will know that the Hughes report focused very much on England, but those affected by the redress scheme will be found across the entire United Kingdom. Will he ensure that he engages with Health Ministers from the devolved authorities?
The hon. Gentleman can certainly be given that assurance from me, as the Minister also responsible for four-nation engagement. The Hughes report examined both the sodium valproate and pelvic mesh issues, and I know that these resonate across the four nations, particularly when it comes to licensing and regulation of medical technology. He has that assurance from me.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy