Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Lord Swire Excerpts
Monday 7th November 2016

(8 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton Portrait Mark Lancaster
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This is an interesting area. Ultimately, the national health service is responsible for our veterans because, as a society, we do not have a specialist veterans department; I think that is the right approach. Nevertheless, we have invested over £13 million of LIBOR money in this specialist area. We do indeed allow people access for up to six months, and I am happy to look at the hon. Gentleman’s suggestion to see how we can perhaps do more.

Lord Swire Portrait Sir Hugo Swire (East Devon) (Con)
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The provision of a psychologist specialising in trauma services would be of huge benefit to the many veterans in Devon, particularly in East Devon, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Will my hon. Friend commit to having an early discussion with the Secretary of State for Health to make such a provision available to my constituents and others?

Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton Portrait Mark Lancaster
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As I mentioned in my original answer, I have a regular meeting with my counterpart at the Department of Health, and I am happy to add my hon. Friend’s suggestion to the agenda.