Topical Questions 2023-12-05

2023-12-05

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Context
The question arises from concerns about meeting manifesto commitments and improving healthcare services.
My priority as Secretary of State is to reform our NHS and social care system to make it faster, simpler and fairer. Since my appointment, we are making progress. To make our system faster, we have hit our manifesto target to recruit and retain 50,000 more nurses for our NHS, and to deliver 50 million more GP appointments, achieving both commitments months ahead of time.
As I said earlier, careful thought has gone into the announcements that were made in the autumn statement, and of course I will work with the Secretary of State and the Chancellor to ensure that the commitments we already have to people living with disabilities are maintained, and that we have their wellbeing at the heart of all our policy making.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address specifics about £390 monthly loss or Cabinet consultation commitment requested
Careful Thought Has Gone Into Announcements
Response accuracy
Q2 Direct Answer
Context
A statutory inquiry is currently underway to investigate deaths in Essex mental health trusts.
The Secretary of State's predecessor took a strong interest in the deaths that took place in the Essex mental health trusts, and a statutory inquiry is now taking place. Will she meet me and our Essex colleagues, and the families, to discuss that important inquiry, so that they can have justice for the loved ones they have lost?
I would be very pleased to meet my right hon. Friend, the families and other Essex MPs to discuss that important inquiry.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Priti Patel Con
Witham
Context
The two-week target from GP referral to a first consultant appointment for breast cancer has not been met since March 2020, causing concern among patients.
Talking of best practice, on this Government's watch, people with suspected breast cancer are not getting it. The two-week target from GP referral to a first consultant appointment for breast cancer has not been met since March 2020. I know from my own experience of breast cancer that the waiting is terrifying, wondering whether it has been left too late and the cancer has become incurable. How much longer will patients have to wait before the Government can meet their own targets and deliver the timely care that patients need and deserve?
I genuinely thank the hon. Lady for her warm welcome, and indeed I welcome her to her first outing at the Dispatch Box. As she was describing where the hon. Member for Ilford North (Wes Streeting) is, I had images of “I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” Sadly for citizens in Wales, they are experiencing what it is like to live under a healthcare system run by Labour, and they might fully agree with that sentiment. The NHS has an ambition to diagnose 75% of cancers as stages 1 or 2 by 2028.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address the specific timeframe for meeting targets
I'M A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here
Response accuracy
Q4 Partial Answer
Ashley Dalton Lab
West Lancashire
Context
Cancer referrals have worsened since the Conservative government came to power, with only 74% of urgent cancer referrals meeting the two-week target in September 2023.
Unfortunately, the reality is that cancer referrals have only got worse with the Conservatives in government. In September 2023, only 74% of urgent cancer referrals to a consultant met that two-week target. That is the second-lowest rate for two-week referrals since 2009. When can the public expect this performance to improve?
We have in fact made progress by delivering record numbers of urgent cancer checks, and levels of first treatments following an urgent cancer referral have been consistently above pre-pandemic levels, with activity in September standing at 108% of pre-pandemic levels on a per working day basis.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific timeframe for improvement
We Have Made Progress
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Ashley Dalton Lab
West Lancashire
Context
The dentist at Firthmoor community centre handed back its contract six months ago, and the ICB has not yet commenced a tender process to replace it.
Some six months ago, the dentist based at Firthmoor community centre, serving 8,000 of my constituents, handed back its contract to the integrated care board. I was shocked last week to learn that the ICB has still not commenced the tender process to replace that provision. What advice can the Minister give me to ensure that our ICB is doing what it needs to do?
My hon. Friend has already raised this issue with me several times in the almost two weeks I have been in this post, so he is doing a great job, and he is right to raise it. Tendering exercises for NHS dentistry are bound by current procurement law, but I am happy to meet him to discuss how much faster we can go to get this sorted out.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific advice on accelerating tender process
But I Am Happy To Meet
Response accuracy
Q6 Partial Answer
Context
The shortage of ADHD medication is impacting patients, with many forced to ration their supply and reporting increased suicidal thoughts.
Brexit broke Britain and it is continuing to wreak havoc on supply chains. The shortage of ADHD medication is now set to drag on into next spring. The shortage has seen 70% of patients forced to ration their supply of ADHD drugs, with 62% reporting an increase in suicidal thoughts. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that supplies of these vital medications are reaching pharmacies across the UK?
The shortage of ADHD medication is a global issue; it is not Brexit-related. We are hoping to have some positive news over the coming weeks.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific actions taken or planned
A Global Issue
Response accuracy
Q7 Partial Answer
Luke Evans Con
Hinckley and Bosworth
Context
Local practice data shows a significant number of 'did not attend' appointments. The issue affects multiple practices across the country, resulting in thousands of hours lost.
My local practice reported 69 missed appointments from November 20 to November 24, including 36 GP and 28 nursing appointments, which is equivalent to 12 wasted hours over five days. Given this trend across Hinckley and Bosworth, what steps will the Government take to state patient costs for missed appointments to raise awareness?
Thanking my hon. Friend's expertise in the matter, I acknowledge that reducing 'did not attend' figures is crucial for optimising clinical time and will consider his suggestion.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific commitment or action on stating patient costs
May Take Suggestion Away To Mull Over
Response accuracy
Q8 Partial Answer
Context
Pathology staffing levels have not been reviewed in 15 years, with the workload increasing by 300%. This situation poses a significant risk to patient safety.
Pathology staffing levels at Royal Blackburn Hospital have not been reviewed for 15 years and workload has increased by 300%. With this national deficit, what steps is the Minister taking to address recruitment issues and ensure staff and patient safety?
We are the first Government to introduce a long-term workforce plan for the NHS, aiming to deliver thousands more clinicians across services in the coming years. However, no specifics on addressing recruitment or safety issues were provided.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific steps for pathology staffing and safety
Will Work With Her On This Issue Introduced Long-Term Workforce Plan
Response accuracy
Q9 Partial Answer
Lee Anderson Reform
Ashfield
Context
NICE has evaluated Kaftrio, Orkambi, and Symkevi as effective treatments for cystic fibrosis but deemed them too expensive to be included on the NHS list. These treatments can save thousands of lives.
Last month NICE said that Kaftrio, Orkambi and Symkevi are effective against cystic fibrosis but are too expensive for inclusion on the NHS's list. Given CF's severity, what will the Secretary of State do to ensure these medications can be made available to save lives?
NICE is continuing its evaluation and Government encourage manufacturers to set prices representing value for the NHS. Existing patients will have access while final recommendations are issued.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to putting treatments on the list
Encourage Setting Price Access Irrespective Of Outcome
Response accuracy
Q10 Partial Answer
Liz Twist Lab
Blaydon and Consett
Context
Financial difficulties are a significant risk factor for suicide. Individuals struggling financially often lack access to both financial and mental health support.
There are strong links between financial difficulties, mental health issues, and suicide rates. Given the financial strain many face, how will the Minister ensure that those seeking help with finances also get mental health support and vice versa?
Financial difficulty is a priority in the suicide prevention strategy, involving multiple Government Departments. Anyone facing financial stress will receive support from relevant departments.
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific integrated support measures
Suicide Is Everyone'S Business Multiple Departments Involved
Response accuracy
Q11 Direct Answer
Context
Dan Archer runs a care agency with an exceptionally low staff turnover due to his focus on decent wages, training, valuing employees, and prioritizing client satisfaction.
My constituent Dan Archer's Visiting Angels care agency has a 13% annual turnover compared to the industry average of 60%. Would the Minister meet my constituent to learn about these successful practices for solving staff shortages in care?
I would be delighted to meet my hon. Friend's constituent, as what he does is important for staff retention and recruitment in adult social care.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q12 Partial Answer
Imran Hussain Lab
Bradford East
Context
Health Secretary declared missing NHS waiting time targets if doctors strike, but since 2010, waiting lists and response times have worsened.
The Health Secretary said the Government will miss waiting time targets if there is a doctor's strike. However, under Conservative rule since 2010, hospital treatment waits, A&E waiting times, cancer referrals, and ambulance response times all increased. The public confidence in government has fallen. Does he admit this performance is causing threats to targets?
We are working with doctors to try and help them look after the NHS. I assume the hon. Gentleman supports our efforts to get consultants back into hospitals.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address performance issues, shifted focus to doctors' strikes
Support Getting Doctors Back Working With Doctors
Response accuracy
Q13 Partial Answer
Context
There is a significant need for NHS dentists in North Devon, as many constituents struggle to see one.
Recognising that money does not grow on trees but neither do teeth. How soon will my constituents be able to see the desperately needed NHS dentists?
We are working at pace on the dental recovery plan, but meanwhile NHS England has commissioned additional urgent dental care appointments via NHS 111.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeline
Working At Pace Additional Appointments Available
Response accuracy
Q14 Partial Answer
Context
The former Health Secretary admitted sick pay is too low during the COVID inquiry. The current system encourages unhealthy individuals to work, risking public health.
Last week, the former Health Secretary admitted at the covid inquiry that sick pay across the UK is “far too low”. It is far lower than the European average and encourages people to go to work when they should be getting better. Does the Secretary of State agree with her predecessor? What discussions will she have with her Cabinet colleagues to improve the inadequate sick pay system?
I will not comment on evidence from the covid inquiry, given that it is an independent inquiry. However, on the general principle of encouraging people back into work, we have the plans set out by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and the Chancellor at the autumn statement. We want to encourage people back into work and to support them when they fall ill and need help from the state.
Assessment & feedback
Did not address whether sick pay is too low or specific plans to improve it
I Will Not Comment On Evidence From The Covid Inquiry
Response accuracy
Q15 Partial Answer
Context
The Government announced £118 million of long-awaited capital funding for south Essex hospitals, with £8 million already delivered and the remaining £110 million confirmed to be on its way.
Last year, I asked the Government to show me the money with respect to £118 million of long-awaited capital funding for south Essex hospitals. With £8 million now delivered and the other £110 million now confirmed to be on its way, will the Secretary of State please come with me to Southend Hospital and see how that vital money will transform care in Southend and Leigh-on-Sea?
I will be delighted to visit that hospital with my hon. Friend—I suspect that I will be visiting a lot of hospitals.
Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm the specific visit to Southend Hospital
Response accuracy
Q16 Direct Answer
Context
The Home Secretary made an announcement regarding overseas recruitment of care workers, which sparked concerns among care providers.
Was the Secretary of State consulted about yesterday's announcement by the Home Secretary? If she was, did she agree with him that it will have no impact on overseas recruitment, or does she hear the fear of care providers about its consequences?
Yes, I was. What is more, we looked carefully at the figures in relation to overseas care workers. We are grateful to all international people who work in our NHS and our care system, but we need to tackle the migration rate, which is too high. The package presented yesterday by the Government is a thoughtful and careful one to tackle legal migration.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q17 Direct Answer
Context
Stroud Maternity Hospital's post-natal beds are not yet open, and the hospital is seeking a ministerial meeting to discuss this issue.
Stroud Maternity Hospital is doing a great job, but the post-natal beds are still not open. We have been chasing a ministerial meeting about that for some time. Will my hon. Friend meet me and the Gloucestershire NHS scrutiny chair, Andrew Gravells, to discuss the issue? We think that we need some help with the Care Quality Commission.
I am happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss that specific issue. We are doing a piece of work on a capital survey of all maternity units as well as working with the CQC on how capital infrastructure—beds and so forth—are impacting on maternity performance.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q18 Partial Answer
Vicky Foxcroft Lab
Lewisham North
Context
ADHD medication supply has been disrupted, with the Department predicting a resolution in early 2024.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications are essential to many people. In response to my written question last month, the Department outlined “disruptions to the supply”, which are expected to “resolve in early 2024”. How have the Government allowed that to happen? What plans does the Department have to prevent a similar situation from occurring in the future?
As I said in an earlier response, there is a global shortage of ADHD medication. As we set out in our response to her written question, we expect that to be resolved shortly.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific measures to prevent future supply disruptions
There Is A Global Shortage
Response accuracy
Q19 Direct Answer
Context
A constituent has requested a meeting with the Minister regarding improvements in lobular breast cancer treatment.
My constituent is concerned about improving lobular breast cancer treatment. Will the Minister meet my constituent and me to discuss how?
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q20 Partial Answer
Emma Lewell Lab
South Shields
Context
Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children and young people, with nearly 500 dying every single year.
With cancer being a significant issue for children and young people, causing almost 500 deaths each year, why does the Government continue to reject calls for a dedicated children's cancer plan?
As the hon. Member knows, cancer will be part of the Government's long-term strategy for diseases. Improving cancer treatment wait times is a top priority for the Government, with a key focus on the elective care recovery plan backed by an additional £8 billion in revenue funding across the spending review period.
Assessment & feedback
Rejection of a dedicated children's cancer plan
Response accuracy
Q21 Partial Answer
Context
The Department of Health and Social Care holds no central data for diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders or the number of mental health nurse appointments available in GP surgeries.
In response to a written question, I was informed that there is no central data on diagnosis and treatment for eating disorders nor an idea of how many mental health nurse appointments are available. Do Ministers agree this situation is disgraceful?
NHS England holds some of that data. Central data is one of the things we are introducing right now to improve our access to data. It makes it difficult to plan services when we do not have that dataset, but we are working to resolve that as quickly as we can.
Assessment & feedback
Agreement on the situation being disgraceful
Response accuracy
Q22 Direct Answer
Sarah Dyke Lib Dem
Glastonbury and Somerton
Context
Farmers face serious mental health challenges, including isolation and loneliness in rural communities.
Farmers suffer from significant mental health issues, with 95% of young farmers identifying poor mental health as their biggest hidden challenge. Will the Minister meet me and the Secretary of State to discuss how we can best support farmers?
I attended the National Farmers Union session in Westminster just before the launch of our suicide prevention strategy. We recognise that isolation and loneliness in rural communities is an issue. I am happy to meet any hon. Members who wish to discuss how we can better support farmers, improve their mental health and reduce suicide rates.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q23 Partial Answer
Richard Fuller Con
North Bedfordshire
Context
The Conservative Mayor of Bedford Borough proposed council money to invest in primary care facilities, but Labour and Liberal Democrat councils voted it down.
Will the Minister join me in congratulating the Conservative Mayor for proposing council money to fund primary care facilities in Great Barford, Wootton, Wixams and Kempston? Will she condemn Labour and Liberal Democrat councils for voting it down?
I am glad that my hon. Friend has raised this issue. He is absolutely right; in local authorities we need mayors and integrated care boards supporting primary care and not listening to the Opposition, who talk it down the whole time. The 50 million more GP appointments is something to celebrate.
Assessment & feedback
Condemnation of Labour and Liberal Democrat councils
Response accuracy
Q24 Partial Answer
Context
The question addresses the disparity in government support for bans on smoking versus perceived nannyish attitudes towards tackling obesity, highlighting costs to the NHS and economy.
Given that obesity now costs the NHS and our economy much more than smoking, why does the Secretary of State support a total ban on smoking but think that measures to tackle obesity are nannyish?
The right hon. Gentleman raises a completely artificial barrier. Smoking is totally preventable; it is the cause of one in four cancers and 75,000 deaths. It is unbelievably appalling. Obesity is a complex area and one that the Government are focused on. We need to tackle it, but it is entirely different.
Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about why measures against obesity are seen as nannyish was not addressed with specifics or statistics.
Raises A Completely Artificial Barrier
Response accuracy
Q25 Partial Answer
Context
The question arises from concerns over the accessibility of general practitioner (GP) and dental services in Bracknell Forest and Wokingham boroughs, prompting a request for direct engagement.
Would the Health Secretary please agree to meet me to discuss improved access to GPs and dentists in Bracknell Forest and Wokingham boroughs?
I will; it would be a pleasure.
Assessment & feedback
No specifics or commitments were provided about meeting arrangements, timelines, or addressing the issue of access to healthcare services in Bracknell Forest and Wokingham boroughs.
Response accuracy
Q26 Partial Answer
Pete Wishart SNP
Perth and Kinross-shire
Context
The question is prompted by the death of Air Marshal Dr David Walker, an academic who died from glioblastoma in June 2017. The constituent's family founded a charity advocating for better funding for brain cancer.
My constituent Air Marshal Dr David Walker, an inspirational leader and academic, sadly died of glioblastoma in June. When diagnosed, he and his wife Catherine were shocked to learn of the woefully low funding for brain and other less survivable cancers and established the charity the Right to Hope with Cancer. Will the Minister show the courage and leadership so epitomised by the life of Air Marshal Walker, and properly resource and fund less survivable cancers, so that everyone living with cancer has some sort of hope?
The hon. Gentleman makes an important point. My 23-year-old constituent Laura Nuttall, from Barrowford, died in May, five years after being diagnosed with a glioblastoma, having been given just a year to live. Before her diagnosis, Laura did work experience in my parliamentary and constituency offices. She was one of the most remarkable people I have ever met. As I get up to speed in my new ministerial role, he can rest assured that I will make as much progress as possible in this area. It is a personal priority to me.
Assessment & feedback
The questioner's request for specific commitments regarding funding and research was not addressed with concrete details or timelines.
As I Get Up To Speed In My New Ministerial Role
Response accuracy