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Sodium Valproate: Compensation

Asked by Mary GlindonLabourDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 3 March 2026UIN 114835

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he plans to make interim payments to people affected by sodium valproate.

Answered by Dr Zubir Ahmed

The Government is carefully considering the valuable work done by the Patient Safety Commissioner and the resulting Hughes Report, which sets out options for redress for those harmed by sodium valproate and pelvic mesh. This is a complex issue, and the Government's priority is to ensure that any response is fair, balanced and sensitive to those affected. The Department is carefully considering the recommendations within the Hughes Report, including providing interim payments, in collaboration with relevant departments, and we aim to provide an update in due course.

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