Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Matthew Pennycook and Caroline Dinenage

Tuesday 24th July 2018 Commons Chamber

[Caroline Dinenage]

My hon. Friend is right to raise that issue. Those who have lost loved ones in that way need answers when things go wrong. The recent bereavement guidance is clear that, when notified of a death, families and carers should be told that they can comment on the care of the person who has died and raise any concerns. From next year, medical examiners will offer greater scrutiny for the bereaved, increasing transparency and offering them the opportunity to raise concerns.

[Matthew Pennycook (Greenwich and Woolwich) (Lab)]

In a recent report, Healthwatch Greenwich drew attention to the fact that many local GP practices are still wrongly refusing to register patients, often vulnerable ones, unless they have ID or proof of address. What more can the Minister do to ensure that each and every GP practice is following the Department’s guidance?

[Caroline Dinenage]

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for that question, and I will certainly look more closely at the issue.