Labour announce backing for public inquiry into mesh implants scandal

Labour
will today (Wednesday 18 October) announce the party’s backing for a public
inquiry into the use of surgical mesh implants.

Labour
will also call for use of the products to be stopped in England immediately
while the inquiry is undertaken.

The
call comes as MPs prepare to discuss the impact of mesh implants in a debate
called by Emma Hardy, MP for Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle, taking place
in Westminster Hall at 9.30am on Wednesday.

Sharon
Hodgson MP, Labour’s Shadow Public Health Minister, speaking ahead of
today’s debate, said:

“Mesh implants have left women in permanent pain, unable to walk,
and unable to work. This is an ongoing public health scandal and the Government
need to do much more to support those affected.  

“Ministers
have said NICE will publish updated guidance for these products but not until
January 2018. Mesh implants should be taken off the market now until we know
more about the threat they pose to women’s safety.

“The
Government have failed to answer big questions about the extent of this public
health scandal, including how many women have been affected and why a product
with such terrible risks was allowed into the market in the first place.

“Labour
is calling for a full inquiry to uncover the extent of the harm done by mesh
implants so we can be sure that this never happens again.”