Weston-super-Mare Liberal Democrats

The Liberal Democrats have worked hard in Government to make sure that widespread concerns about NHS reform have been properly addressed. The following changes come as a direct result of Lib Dem pressure within government:

•there will be no special favours for the private sector
•the pace of change will be slowed down to ensure that changes are not rushed
•the NHS will be properly accountable – both nationally and locally.

Labour left our NHS struggling with out-of-control bureaucracy and wasting billions of pounds each year. That’s why we need to act now to ensure the NHS continues to deliver the best services for patients across Britain.

The Lib Dems in Government have worked hard to deliver better services for NHS patients. Early successes include:

•Extra cash for cancer drugs – no longer will many patients be refused access to vital drugs
•A big investment in – and a fresh approach to – tackling mental health issues.
•£800 million to help disabled children and their families – more support for carers than ever before.

Lib Dem Parliamentary Campaigner for Weston-super-Mare, Mike Bell, said: “I am proud of the way Liberal Democrats have listened and acted to address concerns about changes to the NHS. We have worked hard in Government to make sure the concerns have been addressed.

“The Bill is now a whole lot better and will make sure decisions are taken in the best interests of patients.

“Liberal Democrats believe the NHS must always be universal, based on need and free at the point of use.

“We have ensured there will be no special favours for the private sector, proper accountability and that the changes are not rushed into before people are ready to take on new responsibilities.

“But this is no time for resting on our laurels. The NHS still faces huge challenges, with an ageing population and the rising costs of new drugs and technologies. I am confident the NHS is now in better shape to meet those challenges.”