Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Tracy Gilbert and Wes Streeting

Tuesday 13th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Wes Streeting]

I am grateful to the hon. Member for her question. Although of course we are considering prevalence and what is driving the apparent increase in conditions such as autism and ADHD, we are really driving at ensuring that we meet everyone’s needs. I do not want for this country a future in which those who can afford it pay to go private and those who cannot are left behind. Nor do I want to see a situation in which people who have a diagnosis do not receive the care they need. We are looking at those issues with urgency.

[Tracy Gilbert (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab)]

I and a number of colleagues have concerns about the upcoming PATHWAYS trial. The Secretary of State has powers to use existing medical records for research purposes. Will he therefore consider using those powers to increase the evidence base and prevent the PATHWAYS trial from proceeding?