Oral Answers to Questions

Anna Firth Excerpts

Tuesday 5th December 2023 Commons Chamber

[Victoria Atkins]

I will not comment on evidence from the covid inquiry, given that it is an independent inquiry. However, on the general principle of encouraging people back into work, we have the plans set out by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and the Chancellor at the autumn statement. We want to encourage people back into work and to support them when they fall ill and need help from the state.

[Anna Firth (Southend West) (Con)]

Last year, I asked the Government to show me the money with respect to £118 million of long-awaited capital funding for south Essex hospitals. With £8 million now delivered and the other £110 million now confirmed to be on its way, will the Secretary of State please come with me to Southend Hospital and see how that vital money will transform care in Southend and Leigh-on-Sea?

[Victoria Atkins]

I will be delighted to visit that hospital with my hon. Friend—I suspect that I will be visiting a lot of hospitals.