Government Policy on Health

In a statement to the House of Commons, the minister expressed a commitment to ensuring that the opposition party's spokesperson remains in their role for a long time. The minister acknowledged the government's reliance on experts and their work with a wide range of stakeholders in developing policy, which is central to their mission-driven approach to governance. Addressing the specific concerns raised by the opposition's spokesperson, the minister outlined the significant challenges facing the National Health Service (NHS), including record-high waiting lists, difficulties in accessing GP appointments, ongoing disputes with junior doctors, and a lack of access to NHS dentists in certain areas. The minister stated that the government is being honest about the scale of the crisis and is determined to address it, emphasizing the need for the best available advice to fix the issues left by the previous government. The minister then praised the contributions of a former Health Secretary, Alan Milburn, who is a member of the Privy Council and a former Member of Parliament. The minister highlighted Milburn's achievements, such as giving patients more choice over their treatment and ensuring greater transparency in the NHS, as well as the tough reforms he implemented that led to the shortest waiting times and the highest patient satisfaction in the history of the NHS. The minister expressed a desire to have Milburn's experience and expertise around the table as the government works to reform the NHS and address the current crisis. Overall, the minister's statement conveyed a sense of urgency in addressing the challenges facing the NHS, while also acknowledging the importance of seeking advice from experienced and knowledgeable individuals, such as the former Health Secretary, in order to develop effective solutions.