Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Sodium Valproate Compensation And Redress Scheme

03 February 2022 · 0 other contributors · 1,075 words

Opened by Alan Brown SNP Kilmarnock and Loudoun

Responding minister: Not recorded

NHS

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Alan Brown raised concerns about sodium valproate compensation and redress scheme in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.

Key points

  • Mr Brown is concerned about the impact of sodium valproate on individuals who suffered while pregnant.
  • Claire McKerrow, whose mother was prescribed sodium valproate, has lifelong disability as a result.
  • Mr Brown asks the government to reconsider establishing a redress scheme as recommended by Baroness Cumberlege's report.

Key requests to Government

Mr Brown asks the government to reconsider establishing a redress scheme as recommended by Baroness Cumberlege's report and not just issue an apology that lacks substance without addressing compensation for those affected.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Alan Brown SNP Kilmarnock and Loudoun

Mr Brown is concerned about the impact of sodium valproate on individuals who suffered from taking it while pregnant. He mentions a constituent, Claire McKerrow, whose mother was prescribed sodium valproate leading to foetal anticonvulsant syndrome and lifelong disability for Claire. The McKerrows have campaigned for justice and were disappointed by the UK Government's rejection of recommendation 1 in the Cumberlege review, which calls for an ethical responsibility to provide ex gratia payments. He also highlights the psychological damage caused to mothers who took sodium valproate.

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