Opposition Day Debate on NHS Reorganisation

Tuesday 7th February 2006

Mr. Nicholas Soames (Mid-Sussex) (Con): The Minister and I will agree that in the past five years the NHS budget has indeed increased substantially, while productivity has unfortunately failed to increase at the same rate. Does the hon. Lady agree that the NHS has one of the most committed work forces in the country, and that its biggest failure is the failure to engage properly with its professional staff-the doctors and nurses who are capable of delivering all the service changes that she proposes? Does she agree that much more needs to be done in that regard?

Jane Kennedy MP, Minister of State: It is a pleasure to see the hon. Gentleman restored to us in good health. When he is not here, the House is the poorer for it. His point is fair. When consultations are taking place, it is important for those who have strong views, particularly those who are most closely affected-patients and the staff who deliver services-to be listened to, and to be involved in the consultations.