There’s one major story dominating the UK newspapers – mostly in England – NHS to be axed and brought under government control. The traditional right-wing newspapers are happy with the move from the Labour prime minister, whilst the traditional left-leaning media reacts with more scepticism, suggesting it’s more about optics from the PM and that the cuts won’t actually save that much money.
Cliff notes
- NHS England to be axed and brought under government control to reduce bureaucracy and cut costs.
- Around 50% of jobs at NHS England (14,400 staff) and the Department of Health (3,500 staff) are expected to be cut.
- Sir Keir Starmer said politicians have “hidden behind quangos” for too long and wants more direct accountability.
- The government aims to complete the transition in two years, giving it more control over cutting NHS waiting times.
- NHS England was made independent in 2012 to reduce political interference, but the government now calls it “the world’s largest quango”.
NHS England to be axed
- Is the abolition of NHS England snake oil or a miracle cure? – The Guardian
- How NHS England went so wrong – Daily Telegraph
- What does the abolition of NHS England mean for GPs? – Pulse