In what is becoming akin to reading the runes re the UK government’s intentions regarding research funding into ME/CFS, a further parliamentary written question has been posed and ‘answered’.
Laura Kyrke-Smith MP tabled a question (UIN105555) on the topic which received a response from Dr Zubir Ahmed MP Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care).
Q – To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to put in place a long term funding strategy for research into Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.
A – As set out in the Government’s final delivery plan for myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) that was published in July 2025, the Department has taken action to strengthen research capacity and capability for ME/CFS to support the long-term future of the research field.
These actions include hosting a research showcase event, a new development award to evaluate repurposed pharmaceutical interventions, and announcing newly funded studies in health and care services, research infrastructure, and capacity-building.
We are determined to accelerate progress in the treatment and management of ME/CFS and will continue working with the community to identify and address barriers to research.
The Department funded National Institute for Health and Care Research welcomes funding applications for research into any aspect of human health and care, including ME/CFS.
