Health and Social Care Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department of Health and Social Care
Caroline Johnson
Main Page: Caroline Johnson (Conservative - Sleaford and North Hykeham)Department Debates - View all Caroline Johnson's debates with the Department of Health and Social Care
(1 day, 9 hours ago)
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Dr Caroline Johnson
The Minister talked about less-than-full-time training, which has obviously had an impact on the number of doctors we need. The Secretary of State said before the general election that if Labour was elected, it would double the number of medical school places. Is that still the Government’s intention?
Stephen Kinnock
Yes, that is the Government’s intention. Obviously, we have had some challenges in April around our hope that we could create 1,000 additional places. We have not been able to do that, unfortunately, because of the reckless decision of the BMA to go back out on strike. The absorption of huge capacity, as well as operational issues, has meant that we have not been able to do that.
[Official Report, 22 April 2026; Vol. 784, c. 133WH.]
Written correction submitted by the Minister for Care, the hon. Member for Aberafan Maesteg (Stephen Kinnock):
Stephen Kinnock
This Government have never committed to doubling medical school places. Obviously, we have had some challenges in April around our hope that we could create 1,000 additional places. We have not been able to do that, unfortunately, because of the reckless decision of the BMA to go back out on strike. The absorption of huge capacity, as well as operational issues, has meant that we have not been able to do that.
Dr Johnson
I thank the Minister for that answer, but I believe that it relates to postgraduate training places. I was asking whether it is still the intention to double the number of medical school places?
Stephen Kinnock
Sorry; I misunderstood the question. Yes, it is still our intention to double the number of medical school places.
[Official Report, 22 April 2026; Vol. 784, c. 134WH.]
Written correction submitted by the Minister for Care, the hon. Member for Aberafan Maesteg (Stephen Kinnock):