Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Muslims: NHS

Tuesday 14 April 2026 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Islamophobia is a serious issue affecting over 39% of Muslim health professionals according to BIMA figures.
  • The minister awaits Lord Mann's review for recommendations on tackling anti-Muslim hostility across the NHS.
  • The minister expresses willingness to meet with BIMA and discuss additional measures to address Islamophobia.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Afzal Khan Lab Manchester Rusholme
NHS Religion & Faith
Context

The MP mentions the issue of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred among healthcare professionals, citing that almost 4 40% of Muslim healthcare workers have been verbally abused by colleagues about their faith.

Question

What discussions has the government had with regulators to tackle anti-Muslim hostility in the NHS? According to figures from the British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA), Islamophobia is a persistent issue affecting over 39% of Muslim health professionals. Will the minister commit to a rapid review specifically looking into anti-Muslim hostility experienced by patients and staff?

Answer from Wes Streeting

The Minister acknowledges that Islamophobia is a serious issue, noting the shocking statistics. He confirms ongoing efforts include reviewing definitions of anti-Muslim hostility and awaits Lord Mann's review for recommendations on tackling this prejudice across the NHS. The minister expresses willingness to meet with BIMA and discuss further measures.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to a rapid review specifically looking into anti-Muslim hostility

How: Awaiting Lord Mann'S Review, Willingness To [K Meet

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Q2 Afzal Khan Lab Manchester Rusholme
NHS Religion & Faith
Context

Following an earlier discussion, the MP seeks a commitment for a rapid review focusing specifically on anti-Muslim hostility in healthcare settings.

Question

The Health Secretary campaigned against Islamophobia and adopted a working definition. However, with statistics showing almost 40% of Muslim health professionals facing verbal abuse due to their faith, will he commit to conducting a rapid review specifically into this issue for both patients and staff?

Answer from Wes Streeting

The Minister acknowledges the seriousness of Islamophobia but mentions awaiting Lord Mann's comprehensive review which will include recommendations for tackling all forms of racism, including Islamophobia. He also expresses willingness to meet with BIMA and discuss additional measures.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to a rapid review specifically on anti-Muslim hostility

How: Awaiting Lord Mann'S Review, Willingness To [K Meet

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Q3 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
NHS Community Security Religion & Faith
Context

The MP addresses the need for respect towards Jewish patients and staff, referencing recent newspaper headlines about antisemitic incidents.

Question

Welcoming commitments against anti-Muslim hostility, the MP raises concerns about similar issues affecting Jewish people. With recent press reports on antisemitism in healthcare settings, will the minister ensure everyone in the NHS is respected regardless of their religious beliefs?

Answer from Wes Streeting

The Minister acknowledges that Jewish staff and patients face discrimination, including cases where they are afraid to disclose their faith due to safety concerns. He highlights the need for high-quality care considering genetic factors and condemns shocking racism experienced by Jewish individuals in the NHS.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitments or actions to address antisemitism

How: Acknowledgment Of Issues, No Specific Commitments

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