Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jo Churchill and David Davis

Tuesday 29th October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Jo Churchill]

Clinicians should be in charge of the process, and I have been assured that the change, using genomic testing, is better for patients and better for outcomes, but I would of course be happy to meet the hon. Gentleman and discuss it further.

[Mr David Davis (Haltemprice and Howden) (Con)]

I commend the Minister for the progressive approach the Government have taken to genomics, but for a large number of genetic diseases the symptoms do not manifest themselves until after developmental damage has been done. Will the Government consider whether we should extend genomic testing to all neonates—all newborns—at some point in the future?

[Jo Churchill]

The Government are very open to such an approach. Genomics is transformative, and the early detection of disease means that we can treat patients from birth better and more efficiently.