Debates between Jerome Mayhew and Jo Stevens during the 2024 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jerome Mayhew and Jo Stevens
Wednesday 11th September 2024

(2 months, 1 week ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Jerome Mayhew Portrait Jerome Mayhew (Broadland and Fakenham) (Con)
- Hansard - -

13. What discussions she has had with the Welsh Government on NHS waiting lists.

Jo Stevens Portrait The Secretary of State for Wales (Jo Stevens)
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

We recognise that the NHS in Wales faces unique challenges, and we are committed to working closely with the Welsh Government to improve NHS waiting times. Our approach is grounded in the belief that public services, such as healthcare, should not just be fit for purpose today, but be robust and resilient for the future.

Jerome Mayhew Portrait Jerome Mayhew
- View Speech - Hansard - -

Treating cancer early is critical for survival rates. In England, the target is to have 85% of patients treated within 62 days. In Wales, that target is more generous; it is just 75%, yet it has never been achieved. The current rate is an appalling 56.7%, much worse than the equivalent figure in England. Why is it that Welsh Labour is underperforming England? Is it really still the blueprint for Government?

Jo Stevens Portrait Jo Stevens
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

More people in Wales have been told that they do not have cancer than ever before, and that is good news. Performance increased against the 62-day target for treatment in June compared with the previous month, and over the past two years, the number of patients waiting longer than two years has reduced. Average waits for treatment remain steady.