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National HIV Testing Week 2023

08 February 2023

Lead MP

Maggie Throup
Erewash
Con

Responding Minister

Neil O'Brien

Tags

NHSSocial Care
Word Count: 9962
Other Contributors: 5

At a Glance

Maggie Throup raised concerns about national hiv testing week 2023 in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

I urge the Minister to commit to funding for opt-out HIV testing in high-prevalence areas outside London, estimating an additional £18 million is needed to expand this crucial service across 40 hospitals.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Erewash
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the ongoing issue of undiagnosed people living with HIV, estimated at 4,400 in England. Despite progress, late diagnosis remains a significant problem, with 42% of all new cases diagnosed late in 2020. This leads to higher mortality rates and increased healthcare costs.

Government Response

Neil O'Brien
Government Response
Thanked Members for participating in the debate on National HIV Testing Week. Noted the importance of raising awareness about HIV testing as part of prevention efforts and highlighted the progress made towards ending new HIV transmissions by 2030 through various initiatives, including a £3.5 million investment in the HIV prevention England programme between 2021 and 2024, free HIV home tests with rapid results, and opt-out testing in emergency departments across areas of extremely high HIV prevalence. Mentioned the NHS's £20 million investment for opt-out HIV testing in emergency departments and acknowledged challenges posed by monkeypox but noted that additional resources have been provided. Discussed the potential expansion of the opt-out testing programme based on evidence from initial implementation phases. Announced plans to share emerging evidence to help other areas make the case for implementing similar approaches.
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.