In an exchange between Shadow Health Minister Dr Caroline Johnson and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Mr Streeting reiterated the Government’s commitment to tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Dr Johnson noted the high number of antimicrobial-resistant infections in the UK and the growing risks derived from the war in Ukraine. She asked whether the Government had a plan to tackle AMR in the same way the previous government did.
Mr Streeting confirmed that Professor Dame Sally Davies will continue her work in her role as Special Envoy at AMR and the Government will remain at the forefront of global leadership on the issue. The Health Secretary also praised the work of the previous government, especially the efforts of former Health Minister Will Quince.
Last year, we worked with Mr Quince and his predecessor, Maggie Throup, to produce a consensus statement on the role of diagnostics in supporting antimicrobial stewardship. This can be read here.
We are currently working with major diagnostics companies to deliver real change in this area and keep AMR at the forefront of the political health agenda.
