Backbench BusinessMonday, 15 June 2026

Debate on NHS dentistry

Debate chosen by backbench MPs

This backbench debate examines the state of NHS dentistry, a service facing severe access pressures across England. Members will debate the causes of NHS dentist shortages—including low pay, unfavourable contract terms, and migration to private practice—and potential solutions. The debate offers an opportunity for backbench MPs to highlight constituent complaints about long waiting lists and unavailable NHS dental appointments, and to press the government on its plans to stabilize the service.

Millions of people struggle to find an available NHS dentist, forcing many to go without care or pay private fees they cannot afford. This affects oral health outcomes and household budgets simultaneously. The debate tests Labour's commitment to fixing NHS dentistry, a service in deeper crisis than most other parts of the health system, and may influence government policy on dental contracts, workforce recruitment, or funding.

Health & NHS Cost of Living

MPs most likely to speak

Karin SmythLabour Party

Bristol South

Minister of State — portfolio topic overlap (35pts); Spoken on health, cost-of-living (142 times, 40pts); Known positions: health: supportive, health: neutral, health: opposed (30pts)Voting record

Dr Zubir AhmedLabour Party

Glasgow South West

Parliamentary Under-Secretary — portfolio topic overlap (35pts); Spoken on health, cost-of-living (51 times, 40pts); Known positions: health: supportive, health: neutral, health: opposed (30pts)Voting record

Sir Stephen TimmsLabour Party

East Ham

Minister of State — portfolio topic overlap (35pts); Spoken on health, cost-of-living (50 times, 40pts); Known positions: health: neutral, cost-of-living: neutral, health: supportive (30pts)Voting record

Dr Caroline JohnsonConservative and Unionist Party

Sleaford and North Hykeham

Shadow Health and Social Care — portfolio topic overlap (35pts); Spoken on health, cost-of-living (140 times, 40pts); Known positions: health: questioning, health: opposed, health: supportive (30pts)Voting record

Stephen KinnockLabour Party

Aberafan Maesteg

Minister of State — portfolio topic overlap (35pts); Spoken on health, cost-of-living (152 times, 40pts); Known positions: health: supportive, health: neutral, cost-of-living: neutral (30pts)Voting record

Debate on NHS dentistry

MPs most likely to speak

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