Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Sureena Brackenridge and Stephen Kinnock

Tuesday 24th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Kinnock]

As I have just pointed out to the hon. Member for Waveney Valley (Adrian Ramsay), we have broadened the definition, because the clinical definition of “urgent” was simply not in line with the common-sense interpretation. People removing their own teeth in DIY dentistry were not fitting into the classification of “urgent”. We have changed that categorisation. As a result of that, I am pleased to confirm that we have delivered 1.8 million additional appointments and treatments this year compared with the same period last year—April to October 2025. We will continue to work on that basis of embedding urgent care into the contract, as I announced on 16 December, in the 2026 reforms that we are carrying out.

[Sureena Brackenridge (Wolverhampton North East) (Lab)]

8. What steps his Department is taking to improve ambulance response times.