Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Conference Defeat Highlights Labour's Flawed NHS Plans - Webb

September 29, 2005 6:04 PM

Steve Webb MPSteve Webb MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, responding to the debate at the Labour Party conference on the NHS, said:

"The flaw in Labour's approach to the NHS is that they talk about competition and survival of the fittest but at the same time they subsidise the private sector to encourage private hospitals to do work for the NHS.

"The NHS does need to become more efficient. But it is a waste of taxpayers' money to pay the private sector over the odds to do something the NHS could do anyway.

"The NHS needs reform, but Labour's market driven reforms will pit hospitals against each other, forcing some hospitals to wither on the vine. The priority needs to be promoting co-operation to drive up standards, and increasing accountability at a local level."

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    www.wmlibdems.org/en/article/2005/072570/conference-defeat-highlights-labour-s-flawed-nhs-plans-webb
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    wm.lib.dm/a0379

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you agree, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image