On Tuesday morning, the UK’s Labour government stated that only British doctors and the NHS should be trusted, cautioning that President Donald Trump “doesn’t pay any attention” to his comments regarding autism and Tylenol, which is commonly referred to as paracetamol or acetaminophen in Britain.
UK Health Secretary Wes Street expressed skepticism at a press conference regarding statements made by Trump, Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Dr. Mehmet Oz.
Speaking to national broadcasters on ITV’s breakfast program, Street asserted, “I’m honest about this — I trust doctors more than President Trump.”
This statement follows Trump’s recent visit to the UK, where there seemed to be an effort to prioritize unity between the UK government and the US president. However, tensions over issues like immigration, energy policy, and the Palestinian situation revealed some divisions during the visit.
Addressing a health warning from the White House, Street emphasized that UK physicians and scientists, along with the NHS, should take precedence. He referenced research that he claims “did not support these assertions.”
He noted the importance of prioritizing “UK physicians, British scientists,” along with the NHS, which administers the country’s healthcare. Echoing the mantra of “following science,” he concluded his remarks.
On Monday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. mentioned that the FDA is looking into a study suggesting a possible link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and negative neurodevelopmental outcomes. The FDA acknowledged this “suggested correlation” and indicated they would inform parents and doctors through label updates.
They clarified, however, that while numerous studies have indicated an association between acetaminophen and neurological conditions, no definitive causal relationships have been established, and there are conflicting studies within the scientific community.
The FDA also stated that the decision ultimately lies with the parents, noting that preventative approaches could lead many to avoid acetaminophen during pregnancy, especially as most low-grade fevers don’t necessarily need treatment. Yet, they acknowledged that it’s reasonable for pregnant women to use acetaminophen in specific circumstances.
Street’s comments on Tuesday were not limited to healthcare issues. Later that day, after President Trump referred to London as part of Western Europe during the UN General Assembly, Street, who represents the diverse Ilford area in East London, responded to concerns about multiculturalism.
He tweeted: “[Labour Party Mayor Sadiq Khan] is not trying to impose Sharia law on London. This is a mayor who marches with pride and stands for diversity, focusing on improving transportation, air quality, street safety, and our choices and opportunities. I’m proud of our mayor.”
