Business of the House

Johanna Baxter Excerpts

Thursday 11th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I join the hon. Gentleman in paying tribute to those dads and we wish them well. Men’s mental health is at the forefront of the Government’s health strategy, and the role of fathers is considered as well. Perhaps he will get an opportunity to raise the issue in an Adjournment debate or in the pre-recess Adjournment debate.

[Johanna Baxter (Paisley and Renfrewshire South) (Lab)]

Some 60% of UK households enjoy the company of a pet, but the cost of caring for their health has increased exponentially in recent years. Since 2015, vet fees for household pets have soared by 63%, far outpacing inflation. The Competition and Markets Authority recently published its provisional findings into the veterinary services sector, proposing much-needed remedies to tackle the eye-watering rise in costs. Will the Leader of the House support a debate in Government time on the cost of living pressures on pet owners and what measures might be put in place to ensure that essential pet care remains affordable for families across the UK?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I know that veterinary costs will be a real concern for many, and I say that as a pet owner. The Government will consider any remedies from the Competition and Markets Authority’s final report next year, but in the meantime if my hon. Friend could secure a debate, I am sure that many hon. Members from across the House would share her concerns.