Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Zubir Ahmed and Ben Spencer
Tuesday 21st October 2025

(1 week, 4 days ago)

Commons Chamber
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Ben Spencer Portrait Dr Ben Spencer (Runnymede and Weybridge) (Con)
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Children in Runnymede and Weybridge are waiting on average two years to get a diagnosis of autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder from Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS foundation trust. The trust is deviating from national guidance on new developmental pathways, and waiting times are even greater if children need medication. Does the Secretary of State share my concerns, and will he investigate the trust and make sure that children and families get the support that they need?

Zubir Ahmed Portrait Dr Ahmed
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The hon. Gentleman has considerable expertise in this field, and I am grateful to him for bringing this matter to light, but he was part of the previous Government, who let waiting lists get out of control. He will appreciate that I am unable to directly interfere in ICB decisions, but I am very happy to write to the board to ask for an update, and to update him when it replies.