Privatising the NHS

Published: 25 November, 2010

• THANK you for highlighting the reckless NHS reforms proposed by the coalition government (Occupy wards say OAP leaders, November 18). 

The Green Party is delighted to see so many people in Camden coming together in support of the Keep the NHS Public campaign.

It is important to remember that much of the White Paper is simply a continuation of Labour Party policy. Over the past 13 years, there has been a creeping, underhand privatisation of the NHS with more and more private providers of healthcare services. This might sound good for those who believe that competition is the answer to everything, but the reality is that administrative costs have risen out of control.

The new proposals go one step further – to disband the primary care trusts altogether and give their planning and strategic powers to GPs. 

This is likely to lead to yet more privatisation as GPs will have to use private companies to procure services – more companies making profits from the NHS. 

And no doubt the government will try to blame doctors when services are cut back!

The Green Party urges everyone in London to lobby their MP about this issue. 

We need to act now and make a stand to protect our NHS.

TRISTAN SMITH
Secretary, 
Camden Green Party