Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Keir Starmer and Sarah Green

Wednesday 3rd June 2026 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

I pay tribute to John. We were all deeply sad to hear of his passing. He was a remarkable athlete and coach, and an energetic and enthusiastic champion of his sport. He will be missed by supporters across the country and my thoughts—all our thoughts—are with his wife Dawn, his family and his friends at this sad time.

[Sarah Green (Chesham and Amersham) (LD)]

Q8. Yesterday, at an event here in Parliament, I spoke to women whose children suffered avoidable harm after they continued taking the epilepsy drug sodium valproate during pregnancy. Doctors knew the risks and patients were not informed, and that has had devastating consequences. I am sure that the Prime Minister would agree that the fact that a Government Department commissioned a report looking at how to provide a redress scheme raised an expectation that one was on the horizon. To then not introduce such a scheme would be unbelievably cruel. When will this Government respond to the Hughes report and finally establish a redress scheme for the families?

[The Prime Minister]

We absolutely recognise the harm and huge impact that pelvic mesh has had on so many lives. The hon. Lady will be aware that the Minister for Public Health has been a dedicated campaigner on this very issue. I want to see a full response to the recommendations published as quickly as possible, and I will make sure that the Minister keeps her updated on its progress.