VerbatimParliament, as it happens

DNACPR Decisions: Learning Disability

Asked by Ms Polly BillingtonLabourDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 20 April 2026UIN 125930

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of conducting a national audit of Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation orders for patients with learning disabilities.

Answered by Dr Zubir Ahmed

The Government is clear that the inappropriate or blanket use of Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) decisions is wholly unacceptable, and that no one should have a DNACPR decision in place simply because they have a learning disability. All DNACPR decisions must be made on an individual basis, involving the person concerned and, where appropriate, their family or legally recognised advocate.

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