Rachael Maskell

Rachael Maskell

Labour (Co-op) — York Central

Speaking in the House of Commons on 9 June 2026

Debate

Healthwatch

Contribution

Replacing Healthwatch will mean that, ultimately, patients will not have confidence in the commissioners. We have just heard one example, and I can offer many examples from York. Healthwatch York, which is phenomenal and is led by Siân Balsom, has produced reports that have brought about change. I plead with the Government to review clauses 64 and 65 of the Health Bill to maintain Healthwatch. It should not be an either/or. We need commissioners to engage with the patient voice, but we also need Healthwatch to have the independence to advocate for patients.

More from Rachael Maskell

Other recent Hansard contributions by the same speaker.

About Hansard

Hansard is the official verbatim record of proceedings in the UK Parliament. Every word spoken in the Commons and Lords is recorded and published — this page is a single contribution from that record.

For Rachael Maskell's full parliamentary record including voting history, expenses and all other contributions, see the Rachael Maskell report card.

Partner sites