Mental Health Treatment and Support

Debate between Wera Hobhouse and Neil O'Brien

Wednesday 7th June 2023 Commons Chamber

[Neil O’Brien]

It is just not true there was an increase in suicides because of the lockdowns. There have been a whole series of careful studies of this and that is just not the case. I am afraid that my hon. Friend is not correct about this.

[Wera Hobhouse (Bath) (LD)]

Eating disorders are a national scandal and have reached epidemic proportions. Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental health disorder and a third of people with binge eating disorders are at suicide risk. With at least 125 million people suffering from eating disorders and with soaring waiting lists, is it not time that the Government appointed something like an eating disorder prevention champion to tackle this incredibly difficult but rising crisis?

[Neil O’Brien]

I completely agree about its tremendous importance, and I take this opportunity to mention the incredible work on this hugely important issue by brilliant charities such as Beat. I will outline some of the general things we are doing to increase capacity further.

Oral Answers

Debate between Wera Hobhouse and Neil O'Brien

Tuesday 25th April 2023 Commons Chamber

[Neil O’Brien]

I recently had a very productive meeting with my Scottish Government counterpart. As I mentioned, we have already doubled the duty on cigarettes since 2010 and have brought in a minimum tax for the cheaper cigarettes. Of course, tax is a matter for the Treasury, but we will always be interested in things that can drive down smoking.

[Wera Hobhouse (Bath) (LD)]

6. What steps his Department is taking to improve access to maternity care in the south-west.