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Written question asked by Charlie Dewhirst (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 July 2026. It was answered by Karin Smyth (Labour) on Friday, 10 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.


Department of Health and Social Care: Facilities Agreements

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether (a) his Department and (b) NHS England plan to issue revised guidance on trade union facility time in (i) the NHS and (ii) Arm’s Length Bodies.

Answer

There are currently no plans for the Department or NHS England to issue revised guidance on trade union facility time. Existing relevant legislative provisions are outlined in the ACAS Code of Practice on time off for trade union duties and activities and incorporated into relevant National Health Service employment frameworks, including Section 25 of the NHS terms and conditions service handbook. ACAS is updating its Code of Practice following changes made by the Employment Rights Act 2025. Any implications for the NHS terms and conditions would be considered through the NHS Staff Council supported by NHS Employers, once the updated ACAS Code is finalised.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
14611
Session
2026-27
Related items
ACAS: Codes of Practice
Tuesday, 8 September 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Facilities agreements Department of Health and Social Care
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk