Business of the House

Jas Athwal Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I have never seen the hon. Gentleman as a revolutionary, I have to say, but the points he makes about representation by elected officials are a matter for the Senedd. As he will know, there is a debate later on the Nolan principles, and he may wish to raise some points during that debate, if he catches your eye, Madam Deputy Speaker.

[Jas Athwal (Ilford South) (Lab)]

If booking a medical appointment requires the help of a son or granddaughter —assuming there is one—the system has failed. A 92-year-old constituent who is hard of hearing and speaks perfect English struggles to book GP appointments by phone, and he is sent away when he attempts to book at the surgery in person. That is not innovation, but digital exclusion. Technology should serve people, not determine who is entitled to dignity. Reasonable adjustments must always be an option. Will the Leader of the House help to ensure that the older generation, or those with disabilities, are not being left behind as healthcare access becomes increasingly digitalised?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Digital healthcare should improve access to care, not create new barriers, but unfortunately, that is what we have in the example that my hon. Friend gives. I am sure there will be examples in other constituencies, too. The digital exclusion risk atlas helps to identify digital exclusion risks, while the inclusive digital healthcare framework supports services to address barriers such as accessibility, skills and confidence. I will draw his concerns specifically to the attention of Ministers.