Local Opposition to Government’s Health Bill
Nick meeting local residents opposed to the Government's NHS plans
Nick met this week with local Newcastle residents who are concerned about the Lib Dem-Tory Government’s proposals for the NHS. Nick confirmed that he would continue to oppose the measures in Parliament. Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has announced a “pause” in the process, but Nick is pushing for the plans to be abandoned altogether.
Nick has strong reservations about the proposed changes, which run contrary to the values and ethos of the NHS. Nick voted against the Health and Social Care Bill when it came to the floor of the House of Commons, and will continue to support the Labour Party’s efforts to make the Government think again.
As recently as the Coalition Agreement that was signed between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives last May, the Government promised “No further costly, top-down reorganisations of the NHS”. Despite this, they have announced plans for a high-cost, high-risk internal reorganisation.
The Liberal Democrats and Conservatives have already voted overwhelmingly in favour of the package both times it has been put in front of the House of Commons, but parliamentary progress has been halted due to complaints from the Labour Party, doctors, nurses, care-workers, patients and voluntary groups, health experts and concerned members of the public.
Nick pledged to continue to oppose the Bill when it returns to the House of Commons, and to encourage the Government to think again.
