Speaking in a debate marking the second anniversary of the Hughes report, James Wild MP spoke out one again to call on Ministers to stop delaying and deliver interim compensation for families affected by the sodium valproate scandal.
Sodium valproate, an epilepsy drug, has been linked to serious birth defects and developmental disorders when taken during pregnancy but people were not warned of the dangers. The Hughes Report published in 2024 by the previous government outlined a clear framework for both financial and non-financial redress for those affected.
James warned that another year has passed without progress and said families are still waiting for meaningful action.
Addressing the lack of urgency from Ministers, James told the House:
“For those who have suffered, the passing year has not just slipped by quietly, yet we still hear the same language from Ministers about a response coming ‘in due course’. Those words ring very hollow to the victims whose patience has long since run out.”
He also challenged the government’s explanation that the issue is too complex, noting that the Hughes report set out a clear interim approach that has still not been implemented.
Turning to the impact on families in North West Norfolk, James highlighted the experience of his constituents Colleen and Andy and their son Byron:
“Colleen has epilepsy and was prescribed sodium valproate, but she was never warned that it could harm her unborn child. Byron lives with autism, learning disabilities, communication difficulties and epilepsy.”
James has continued to raise the issue directly with Ministers, including the Health Secretary during health questions last month. He said promised updates have not materialised:
“When I pressed the Health Secretary at health questions last month, he said that we were ‘right to hold the Government’s feet to the fire’. He said that work was happening across Government and promised updates. But there have not been any updates.”
Closing his speech, James pressed the government to set out a clear timetable and confirm when support will reach affected families:
“Victims do not need any more words; they need action… I ask the Minister: when will interim payments finally be made to those affected and give families the relief they urgently need?”
