Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Care, if he will ensure that the cross-government delivery plan for ME/CFS will include (a) an apology to patients for their historic treatment and (b) clear steps that demonstrate his commitment to delivering a new approach.

The content of the myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), delivery plan has not yet been finalised. The responses to the 2023 interim delivery plan consultation, along with continued close engagement with stakeholders, will inform the development of the final ME/CFS delivery plan, which we aim to publish in the coming months. The plan will focus on boosting research, improving attitudes and education, and bettering the lives of people with this debilitating disease.

People with ME/CFS deserve the most appropriate treatment and to be confident that the National Health Service can offer that treatment. I recognise that care for people with ME/CFS has varied widely, and in the worst cases has left some people feeling that their illness is not recognised by the health and care system. We know that more research, better services, and a better understanding of the condition all have the potential to make a huge difference to the quality of life of people with ME/CFS.