Health Inequalities Staffordshire 2026-07-14
2026-07-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about health inequalities and the need for government action.
What steps his Department is taking to help tackle health inequalities in Staffordshire?
The Government are taking action to tackle health inequalities through the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, new heart disease and strokes plan, and the 10-year health plan.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures for Staffordshire were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted the poor air quality affecting Audley health centre and its impact on asthma and COPD prevalence.
Audley health centre is facing high levels of pollution from the M6. Will the Government ensure that residents are not disproportionately affected by respiratory diseases? The MP also asked for a meeting to discuss this issue.
The Government have introduced a new duty on strategic and combined authorities to consider population health and reducing health inequalities, including air quality. The Minister is willing to meet with the MP if time allows.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures for Audley were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Government's plans to abolish Healthwatch, citing concerns about reducing independent feedback.
Does the Minister agree with the Government's plans to abolish Healthwatch or does she share concerns that it will reduce the independent voice?
The Government are putting the patient voice at the heart of the health service, although they may be seen as scrapping something, they believe it will make it better.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific details on Healthwatch plans were provided
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about the Government's commitment to double the number of medical school places, citing previous promises made by Labour members.
Is it accurate that the Government have never committed to doubling the number of medical school places? Is this a promise they intend to break?
The 10-year workforce plan will prioritise British graduates entering the workforce, but no specific mention of doubling medical school places was provided.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitment to double medical school places not confirmed
Response accuracy