Oral Answers to Questions

Layla Moran Excerpts

Tuesday 25th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

I call the Chair of the Health and Social Care Committee.

[Layla Moran (Oxford West and Abingdon) (LD)]

Diethylstilbestrol, or DES, was prescribed to women until the 1980s to treat miscarriage. Those who took it were themselves at greater risk of breast cancer, and their daughters have a higher risk of rare cervical cancers. It is estimated that a whopping 300,000 women have been affected. Two weeks ago the Secretary of State made an apology to victims, but they rightly want more than “sorry”, and they have pointed out that the current screening regime is insufficient. Will the Secretary of State meet me, and campaigners and victims, in order to understand how this was allowed to happen, who will be held accountable, and how those women can go about securing compensation for this egregious scandal?

[Wes Streeting]

I thank the Chair of the Select Committee for raising that extremely serious issue. I am glad that she has drawn it to the House’s attention. I have apologised, on behalf of the state, for the failure that occurred and for the harm that has arisen as a result. My hon. Friend the Member for Bournemouth West (Jessica Toale) has been campaigning diligently, and the DES Justice UK campaigners have done a magnificent job in raising public awareness. I am always delighted to meet the Chair of the Select Committee because I know which side my bread is buttered on, but I should be particularly delighted to meet her to discuss this specific issue.