Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Alan Mak and Yvette Cooper

Tuesday 20th October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Yvette Cooper]

The work that we have done since the election has significantly increased the number of midwives across the country, which we rightly need to do. I have also been clear to the NHS chief executive that the NHS, regionally and nationally, needs to do everything possible to help reopen North Devon maternity services. I know that work is under way on trying to increase recruitment and support local recruitment. There is a broader issue about ensuring, particularly in more rural areas, that proper recruitment and maternity workforce plans are in place. We need to ensure, and mums need to know, that the services are there for them when they need them, including at the time they go into labour. That will be part of the approach that we are taking to maternity services.

[Alan Mak (Havant) (Con)]

4. What recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of primary care provision.