Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government when they intend to respond to the Hughes Report, published on 7 February 2024, on options for redress for those harmed by valproate and pelvic mesh.

I refer the Noble Baroness to the answer provided in the House of Commons on 8 July in response to Question 15843, which is reproduced below:

The Government extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by pelvic mesh, and recognises the profound, life‑changing impact these harms have had on individuals and their families. We know that for many, the consequences are ongoing and deeply felt. The Government is carefully considering the work done by the Patient Safety Commissioner (PSC), Professor Henrietta Hughes, including her report, which set out recommendations for redress for those harmed by sodium valproate and pelvic mesh. The Government has been clear that there must be meaningful progress on this matter during this Parliament. We recognise how difficult this uncertainty is for those affected, and we will ensure that the public is kept informed on this important work.