Prevention of Ill Health: Government Vision

Desmond Swayne Excerpts

Monday 5th November 2018 Commons Chamber

[Matt Hancock]

On medicinal cannabis, I announced more research today and there is now a route in England. The hon. Gentleman will of course have to talk to the Scottish health service to ensure that a constituent in Scotland gets access, but I am very happy to look into specific English cases.

On the broader point about alcohol, it is important that we tackle alcohol abuse and it is vital that we do it in the right way. I do not want to punish people who drink responsibly at responsible levels, including myself. I occasionally drink at a responsible level, and I am sure that the hon. Gentleman does—certainly his colleagues enjoy a wee dram. Nevertheless, 5% of people in this country drink 30% of the alcohol. It is the small minority who present significant problems for the NHS and we need significant, targeted action.

[Sir Desmond Swayne (New Forest West) (Con)]

We have cut salt dramatically and the Secretary of State now wants to cut it further; life will certainly seem longer, will it not?

[Matt Hancock]

There are many ways to make one’s food taste good and make it healthy, too.