Newcastle-under-Lyme MP calls for new dental school at Keele

Aaron Bell MP, the Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme, has called for a new dental school at Keele at PMQs today (Wednesday 5 July).

He asked the Deputy Prime Minister if the Government would be opening new dental schools as part of the new £2.4 billion NHS Long Term Workforce Plan.

The plan was announced by the Prime Minister last week, which aims to train thousands more dentists in England over the next 10 years.

The Government will expand dentistry training places by 40% so that there are over 1,100 places by 2031/32.

Today, (Wednesday 5 July) the Deputy Prime Minister, Oliver Dowden, was filling in for the Prime Minister who was attending a Westminster Abbey service for the NHS’ 75th birthday.

Aaron Bell MP said: “Thank you, Mr Speaker. Could I associate myself with your comments about the NHS and pay tribute to all NHS workers both in Newcastle-under-Lyme and across the country.

"And on that note could I welcome the new Long Term Workforce Plan, and in particular the extra 40% places for dental schools. Access to dentistry has been an issue for a number of my constituents. Would my Right Honourable Friend consider the merits of actually opening new dental schools, not just new dental places.

"Keele University is one of the best medical schools in the country and would make an excellent site for a new dental school, if that would be amenable.”

Welcoming Mr Bell’s question, the Deputy Prime Minister said: “Well, as ever, my honourable friend makes a very strong case for his constituency.

"As a result of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, we are currently assessing capacity at existing dental schools to see whether they can accommodate the expansion in training places. But of course we retain an open mind as to whether we need further such education facilities.”

The local MP later added: “I am pleased the Deputy Prime Minister will investigate the possibility of new dental schools being set up to support the Government's £2.4 billion long-term plan for the NHS: Keele University would be a fantastic option.

"As we celebrate the NHS’s 75th anniversary, we pay tribute to its tremendous accomplishments, however we must keep investing in its workforce to ensure patients receive high quality care quickly."