VerbatimParliament, as it happens

General Practitioners: Health Services

Asked by Mr Andrew SnowdenConservativeDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 20 January 2026UIN 103497

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of variations between GP surgeries in the provision of basic clinical procedures, including suture removal.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock

Local enhanced services, such as suture removal, are negotiated and agreed locally, and are commissioned by integrated care boards (ICBs) to fit the needs of the local population. General practices can choose whether or not they would like to participate in directly providing these services. These services can vary in scope and funding across the country.

ICBs are responsible for commissioning health care services within their regions. This includes ensuring service providers are able to meet the reasonable needs of their patient population.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim