Newborn bloodspot screening for spinal muscular atrophy

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That this House recognises the life-changing difference early diagnosis and treatment can make for babies with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA); notes that SMA is a rare but serious genetic condition which, if untreated, can cause severe disability or early death; further notes that gene therapies exist which are most effective when given before symptoms appear; acknowledges that SMA is not currently included in the routine newborn bloodspot screening programme (formerly known as heel prick test) in England, Wales or Northern Ireland; also notes that a two-year pilot will begin in Scotland in spring this year and that the National Screening Committee is currently reviewing whether to introduce screening across the UK; and therefore calls on the Government to act urgently with the NHS, devolved health authorities, and the National Screening Committee to introduce SMA screening for all newborns across the UK.