Peter Aldous welcomes news that work has started on a new NHS dental contract and seeks a commitment from the Government to root and branch reform to NHS dentistry, including fair funding, a strategic long-term approach to recruitment and retention, a proper prevention policy and transparent and full local accountability.
Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con)
It is welcome to hear that D is for dentists. As a constituency neighbour, my right hon. Friend is very much aware that there is a crisis in NHS dentistry in Suffolk. There have been some improvements, and it is welcome, as she has said, that work has started on a new NHS dental contract. Can she confirm that she is committed to root and branch reform, which also includes fair funding, a strategic long-term approach to recruitment and retention, a proper prevention policy and transparent and full local accountability?
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Dr Thérèse Coffey)
My hon. Friend is right. In his constituency —in Lowestoft in particular—there has been increasing provision. Meanwhile, in Leiston, not a single dental practice will take up the opportunity to provide NHS dental care at the moment. I entirely accept that the matter needs sorting. That is why we will be putting the priority on the local NHS to make sure that we avoid these dental deserts. In terms of other aspects of the contract, they will continue to evolve.