Written questions by Maguire.

What steps he is taking to help prevent armed forces personnel from developing mental and behavioural disorders.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) encourages personnel to consider their mental fitness as equally as important as their physical fitness promoting good mental resilience and mitigating the negative impacts of potential traumatic experiences. The Department encourages early identification and intervention for those experiencing mental health challenges and actively promotes a culture where Personnel feel comfortable seeking help without stigma. Personnel have access to a vast range of resources to support their mental health with both in-person and online options, briefings before, during, and post-deployment, a dedicated 24 hour phoneline for both personnel and their families and access to HeadFIT; an externally accessible website specifically designed for the Defence community. All Personnel, attend a mandated annual mental fitness brief which provides information on mental health, wellbeing, stress management, and provides signposting to appropriate help. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental health disorders are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides a responsive, flexible, accessible, and comprehensive treatment service. DPHC has introduced standardised training for primary care clinicians incorporating emerging digital interventions to ensure Personnel can access initial mental healthcare at any Defence medical centre, strengthening the initial management of mental health disorders within primary care settings. Defence Mental Health Networks (DMHNs) are located across the UK and are improving access to specialist mental health services for personnel. These specialist community mental health services provide enhanced access to expert assessment and treatment for personnel experiencing mental health disorders. By introducing new single points of access, enabling the sharing of specialist skills across network locations and consolidating clinical and governance processes DMHNs are reducing wait times to enhanced assessments and core treatment therapies. The through life support now provided to Service personnel will have a positive impact on the veterans of the future, ensuring that Armed Forces Personnel have the psychological resilience they need to recognise mental ill-health in themselves, those around them and know how to manage it. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they are fit to fight and can fight back to fitness.

What steps he is taking to support the armed forces bereaved community.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) recognises the extraordinary commitment and sacrifices that Service families make to our country and, in particular, of those who are bereaved. We take a holistic multi-agency approach to supporting the bereaved community with UK wide support in place through the single Services, the Defence Bereaved Families Group (DBFG) and Veterans Services. Defence provides clear signposting to the support and resources available to the Armed Forces bereaved community, offering access to timely and appropriate support. We recognise that the emotional and practical impact of bereavement is often complex and shared by many, therefore our guidance has been compiled as a resource for the wider family, friends and colleagues, and is provided to the bereaved after any in-Service death. Immediately following the death of a Service person, a trained Visiting Officer is appointed to act as the Armed Forces’ focal point in offering practical assistance and advice to the family. Specialist statutory support is also provided by Veterans Services through the provision of a Case Manager, who provides financial information and practical support. A Chaplain is available to offer pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and practical advice if requested. The DBFG was formed to ensure two-way communication on matters of bereavement between the MOD and the bereaved cohort. It is co-chaired by a military representative from within Defence and a ‘lived experience’ representative of one of the single Service Widows Associations. The DBFG facilitates the opportunity to shape policy to ensure those who suffer such loss are treated fairly and with due consideration. Furthermore, I can confirm that the bereaved are included in the Armed Forces Covenant, our promise that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, including the bereaved should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society they serve.

What steps he is taking to support armed forces personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental and behavioural disorders.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) encourages personnel to consider their mental fitness as equally as important as their physical fitness promoting good mental resilience and mitigating the negative impacts of potential traumatic experiences. The Department encourages early identification and intervention for those experiencing mental health challenges and actively promotes a culture where Personnel feel comfortable seeking help without stigma. Personnel have access to a vast range of resources to support their mental health with both in-person and online options, briefings before, during, and post-deployment, a dedicated 24 hour phoneline for both personnel and their families and access to HeadFIT; an externally accessible website specifically designed for the Defence community. All Personnel, attend a mandated annual mental fitness brief which provides information on mental health, wellbeing, stress management, and provides signposting to appropriate help. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to mental health disorders are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides a responsive, flexible, accessible, and comprehensive treatment service. DPHC has introduced standardised training for primary care clinicians incorporating emerging digital interventions to ensure Personnel can access initial mental healthcare at any Defence medical centre, strengthening the initial management of mental health disorders within primary care settings. Defence Mental Health Networks (DMHNs) are located across the UK and are improving access to specialist mental health services for personnel. These specialist community mental health services provide enhanced access to expert assessment and treatment for personnel experiencing mental health disorders. By introducing new single points of access, enabling the sharing of specialist skills across network locations and consolidating clinical and governance processes DMHNs are reducing wait times to enhanced assessments and core treatment therapies. The through life support now provided to Service personnel will have a positive impact on the veterans of the future, ensuring that Armed Forces Personnel have the psychological resilience they need to recognise mental ill-health in themselves, those around them and know how to manage it. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they are fit to fight and can fight back to fitness.

What steps he is taking to prevent armed forces personnel from developing musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.

There are a range of programmes available, with specifically tailored support provided to personnel at increased risk of MSKI. Commanding Officers are also provided with specific guidance and education to reduce the occurrence of MSKI. Innovative solutions are being piloted through the Human Performance Optimisation programme, which has assessed Vitamin D supplementation and revised ration packs to increase protein content. Additionally, personnel may have their medical employment standard amended to protect them from activities that might exacerbate their condition. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides rehabilitation services across the UK delivered through Primary Care Rehabilitation Facilities and Regional Rehabilitation Units, with Personnel being able to access physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation quickly and throughout their service. For more complex cases, Personnel receive dedicated support at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre; a world leader in specialist rehabilitation care. Where Personnel require surgical intervention, DPHC commissions private healthcare treatment for Service personnel which falls outside NHS policy and provision. Bespoke private-sector healthcare pathways are also offered for some Service personnel in priority trade groups who are on NHS waiting lists for longer than 18 weeks. Additionally, the Regional Rehabilitation Unit Fast Track Scheme, in contract with a private-sector healthcare provider, delivers rapid access to high quality musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging, high quality orthopaedic specialist surgical intervention and access to an accelerated spinal care pathway. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they can get back to fitness.

What plans he has to support SMEs that rely on the Energy Company Obligation scheme for predictable work after March 2026.

We have committed £1.5 billion in new grant funding to help low-income households with upgrades, taking total investment under the Warm Homes Plan to almost £15 billion. UK clean energy and related supply chain jobs are projected to rise from around 440,000 in 2023 to around 860,000 by 2030, offering transition opportunities for businesses currently installing measures under ECO4. Further details will be provided in the Warm Homes Plan.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department plans to take to help support women and girls affected by female genital mutilation after the conclusion of The Girl Generation-Africa-Led Movement to End FGM initiative in October 2026.

The UK is committed to championing the rights of women and girls worldwide, including working with local partners to tackle the scourge of female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage and other coercive practices. As well as investing up to £35.5 million in the Africa-Led Movement to End FGM programme, which operates in Kenya, Senegal, Somalia and Ethiopia, we also contribute towards the UNICEF/UN Population Fund Joint Programme for the Elimination of FGM, which operates in eighteen countries. Allocations of Official Development Assistance funding for future years will be set out in the coming months, including our programmes to protect the rights of women and girls.

What steps he is taking to support armed forces personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.

There are a range of programmes available, with specifically tailored support provided to personnel at increased risk of MSKI. Commanding Officers are also provided with specific guidance and education to reduce the occurrence of MSKI. Innovative solutions are being piloted through the Human Performance Optimisation programme, which has assessed Vitamin D supplementation and revised ration packs to increase protein content. Additionally, personnel may have their medical employment standard amended to protect them from activities that might exacerbate their condition. Personnel who are unable to be deployed due to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries are managed clinically by Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC). DPHC provides rehabilitation services across the UK delivered through Primary Care Rehabilitation Facilities and Regional Rehabilitation Units, with Personnel being able to access physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation quickly and throughout their service. For more complex cases, Personnel receive dedicated support at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre; a world leader in specialist rehabilitation care. Where Personnel require surgical intervention, DPHC commissions private healthcare treatment for Service personnel which falls outside NHS policy and provision. Bespoke private-sector healthcare pathways are also offered for some Service personnel in priority trade groups who are on NHS waiting lists for longer than 18 weeks. Additionally, the Regional Rehabilitation Unit Fast Track Scheme, in contract with a private-sector healthcare provider, delivers rapid access to high quality musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging, high quality orthopaedic specialist surgical intervention and access to an accelerated spinal care pathway. Defence is committed to ensuring that Service Personnel receive the care and treatment required to ensure they can get back to fitness.

What assessment his Department has made of the dangers to NHS staff from exposure to formaldehyde.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (2002) (COSHH) (as amended) is a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, including formaldehyde. Under COSHH, it is the responsibility of each NHS employer to assess the risk from their work activities involving formaldehyde and to ensure that the exposure of their employees to this hazardous substance is either prevented, or where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled.

What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of ending funding for the Energy Company Obligation scheme in March 2026 on small and medium-sized businesses.

The government recognises that the closure of the supplier obligation schemes will present challenges for companies in the supply chain and is committed to supporting businesses to transition to new opportunities for delivering clean heat and energy efficiency measures. The Warm Homes Plan will set out the Government’s plans to invest nearly £15 billion in home upgrades. The number of UK jobs supported in clean energy industries and their supply chains is estimated to increase from around 440,000 today to around 860,000 by 2030 and we are working closely with the sector to support its growth.

What steps his Department is taking to support the NHS to manage the number of patients requiring hospital care for flu.

We continue to monitor the impact of winter pressures on the National Health Service over the winter months, providing additional support as needed.The Department is continuing to take key steps to ensure the health service is prepared throughout the colder months. This includes taking actions to try and reduce demand pressure on accident and emergency, increasing vaccination rates, and offering health checks to the most vulnerable, as well as stress-testing integrated care boards and trust winter plans to ensure they are able to meet demand and ensure patient flow.Flu is a recurring pressure that the NHS faces every winter. There is particular risk of severe illness for older people, the very young, pregnant, and those with certain underlying health conditions. The flu vaccine remains the best form of defense against influenza, particularly for the most vulnerable, and continues to be highly effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalisation.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps she is taking to end female genital mutilation.

The UK is committed to championing the rights of women and girls worldwide, including working with local partners to tackle the scourge of female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage and other coercive practices. As well as investing up to £35.5 million in the Africa-Led Movement to End FGM programme, which operates in Kenya, Senegal, Somalia and Ethiopia, we also contribute towards the UNICEF/UN Population Fund Joint Programme for the Elimination of FGM, which operates in eighteen countries. Allocations of Official Development Assistance funding for future years will be set out in the coming months, including our programmes to protect the rights of women and girls.

What assessment his Department has made of the impact of the ending of funding for the Energy Company Obligation scheme in March 2026 on energy bills.

To bring energy bills down for all, the decision has been made not to continue the Energy Company Obligation and associated Great British Insulation Scheme when they end next year. This will save on average £60 on energy bills per household. Combined with other essential support delivered through the Budget, this will reduce energy costs by £150 from next April.

Whether he has had discussions with the Secretary of State for Energy, Security and Net Zero on the potential impact of changes to funding for the Energy Company Obligation scheme in March 2026 on cold-related health issues.

Ministers and officials from the Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero engage regularly on policy issues of interest to both departments. We will continue working together to ensure that cold-related health impacts are considered when implementing the Fuel Poverty Strategy for England and the Warm Homes Plan, and that more health-vulnerable households get the help they need to improve their homes.

How many patients were admitted to A&E in England and seen within a) four hours and b) 12 hours after 5pm in the (a) 2021-22, (b) 2022-23, (c) 2023-24 and (d) 2024-25 financial years.

I refer the Hon. Member to the answers provided on 11 November to Questions 87614 and 87615. Otherwise, we do not hold data at this level of granularity.

How many patients were admitted to A&E in England and seen within a) four hours and b) 12 hours at the weekend in the (a) 2021-22, (b) 2022-23, (c) 2023-24 and (d) 2024-25 financial years.

I refer the Hon. Member to the answers provided on 11 November to Questions 87614 and 87615. Otherwise, we do not hold data at this level of granularity.

If he will introduce the prioritisation of cases involving rape and sexual offences in the court lists.

Decisions on listing are a matter for the independent judiciary, which already prioritises cases involving vulnerable complainants and witnesses, including those relating to sexual offences. These cases are listed at the earliest opportunity.The record allocation of sitting days this financial year will mean more rape and other sexual offence cases can be heard – delivering swifter justice for victims of such crimes. We also commissioned Sir Brian’s Independent Review of the Criminal Courts and have announced a package of reforms designed to improve timeliness in the Crown Court and speed up justice for all victims, including victims of rape.

What data his Department holds on the number of people who were treated following female genital mutilation in the (a) 2022–23, (b) 2023-24 and (c) 2024-25 financial years.

There are a range of services available to support women affected by female genital mutilation (FGM) including treatment, counselling, and further referrals to urology and gynaecology, depending on clinical need.Data published in the FGM Enhanced Dataset records the number of FGM-related attendances in National Health Service settings. This data is published by NHS England and shows health attendances by patients where FGM was identified or a procedure for FGM was undertaken. The FGM data is collected by NHS healthcare providers in England, including acute hospitals, mental health services, and general practices. The following table shows the number of individual women and girls who had an attendance where FGM was identified, and the number of FGM related attendances for 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25:PeriodNumber of individual women and girls who had an attendance where FGM was identifiedNumber of FGM related attendancesApril 2022 to March 20236,00012,660April 2023 to March 20246,69514,395April 2024 to March 20256,98016,300Source: Female Genital Mutilation, Annual Report - April 2024 to March 2025, published by NHS England, and available at the following link: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/female-genital-mutilation/april-2024-to-march-2025 Notes:individuals refers to all patients in the reporting period where FGM was identified or a procedure for FGM was undertaken. Each patient is only counted once; andtotal attendances refers to all attendances in the reporting period where FGM was identified or a procedure for FGM was undertaken. Women and girls may have one or more attendances in the reporting period. This category includes both newly recorded and previously identified women and girls.

Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of countries withdrawing from the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction on the integrity of the Convention.

I refer the Hon Member to the answer she was provided on 5 November in response to Question 85644.

Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to help prevent discrimination against women in digital spaces.

Making the online environment a safer and fairer place for women and girls is a priority for this government.The Online Safety Act has placed a requirement on tech platforms to proactively tackle the most harmful illegal content, much of which disproportionately affects women and girls, including harassment and intimate image abuse.Ofcom recently published guidance outlining further steps services can take to make their platforms safer for women and girls online. We will be monitoring platforms’ progress closely and working with Ofcom to hold them to account.The government is developing its wider strategy to tackle violence against women and girls and will publish it in due course.

What steps his Department is taking to increase research funding for bladder cancer.

Research is crucial in tackling cancer, which is why the Department invests £1.6 billion each year on research through its research delivery arm, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).Between the 2020/21 and 2024/25 financial years, the NIHR committed £6 million for new research and programmes into bladder cancer research projects. An example of this investment includes a £2.9 million award for ‘Combination chemotherapy versus Bacillus Calmette-Guérin for high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer a phase III multi-centre randomised controlled trial (COBRA)’. This study is researching whether gemcitabine and docetaxel delivered through intravesical therapy are typically recommended to patients who do not respond well to bacillus Calmette-Guerin treatment, a more common type of intravesical therapy that uses immunotherapy drugs to disrupt the processes that fuel bladder cancer growth.The NIHR continues to welcome funding applications for research into any aspect of human health and care, including bladder cancer. These applications are subject to peer review and judged in open competition, with awards being made on the basis of the importance of the topic to the public and health and care services, value for money, and scientific quality.