Written question asked by Andrew Griffith (Conservative) on Monday, 1 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 June 2026 (named day). A holding answer was provided on Friday, 5 June 2026. A substantive answer was provided by Preet Kaur Gill (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Magnetic Resonance Imagers: Helium

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what plans he has to ensure reliable and affordable supplies of Helium for MRI scanners in the NHS estate.

Answer: The Department is closely monitoring the impacts of the Middle East conflict on the medical supply chain, including on the supply of helium. We have engaged with industry and received assurance on the stability of continued helium supply through contingency planning and sourcing through multiple global routes. We will continue to monitor the supply of helium and other medical products to mitigate any potential impacts on patient care.

Secondary information