Rishi Sunak has finally admitted he has used private healthcare following weeks of speculation about whether he relied on NHS services.
The Prime Minister said he was registered with an NHS GP but told MPs he had used "independent" healthcare in the past. He has previously refused to answer questions about whether he had private healthcare, insisting it was "not really relevant".
At Prime Minister's Questions Mr Sunak said: "I am registered with an NHS GP. I have used independent healthcare in the past and I'm also grateful to the Friarage Hospital for the fantastic care they have given my family over the years."
Labour MP Cat Smith said there were no NHS dentists taking on patients in her Lancaster and Fleetwood constituency, adding: "For those constituents of mine lucky enough to have one, they're waiting months for an appointment. So, can I ask the Prime Minister how long he had to wait for his last NHS dentist appointment?"
Mr Sunak replied in the Commons: "As a result of the new reformed NHS dentistry contract there are now more NHS dentists across the UK with more funding making sure people can get the treatment they need. Let me answer the honourable lady directly - I am registered with an NHS GP, I have used independent healthcare in the past... and I'm also grateful to the Friarage Hospital for the fantastic care they've given my family over the years.
"The truth is I am proud to come from an NHS family and that's why I'm passionately committed to protecting it with more funding, more doctors and nurses, and a clear plan to cut the waiting lists."
