Newborn bloodspot screening for spinal muscular atrophy

Early day motion 2576, tabled 7 January 2026 by Sorcha Eastwood (Alliance). Signed by 34 members.

That this House recognises the life-changing difference early diagnosis and treatment can make for babies with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA); notes that SMA is a rare but serious genetic condition which, if untreated, can cause severe disability or early death; further notes that gene therapies exist which are most effective when given before symptoms appear; acknowledges that SMA is not currently included in the routine newborn bloodspot screening programme (formerly known as heel prick test) in England, Wales or Northern Ireland; also notes that a two-year pilot will begin in Scotland in spring this year and that the National Screening Committee is currently reviewing whether to introduce screening across the UK; and therefore calls on the Government to act urgently with the NHS, devolved health authorities, and the National Screening Committee to introduce SMA screening for all newborns across the UK.

Signatures by party: Labour 8, Liberal Democrat 8, Green 4, DUP 3, Plaid Cymru 3, Labour/Co-operative 2, Alliance 1, Independent 1, Scottish National Party 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, Traditional Unionist Voice 1, UUP 1.