Both David Cameron and Gordon Brown appear to be suggesting that Hospital Closures and other "service reconfigurations" should not be a political issue.
David Cameron will set out plans today to give the NHS greater protection from political interference. The Conservative "independence Bill" for the NHS would put crucial decisions on its running and resources beyond the control of ministers by 2008.
This proposal is along the lines of Gordon Brown's. It is like Patricia Hewitt disclaiming responsibility for all of the decisions of PCTs. What it actually means is politicians opting out of decisions as to whether or not services are changed.
However superficially attractive this may seem to the tabloids it would result in a situation in which ordinary citizens become powerless in influencing what happens with the NHS. Bringing in proper accountability at PCT level would be far more effective.
David Cameron will set out plans today to give the NHS greater protection from political interference. The Conservative "independence Bill" for the NHS would put crucial decisions on its running and resources beyond the control of ministers by 2008.
This proposal is along the lines of Gordon Brown's. It is like Patricia Hewitt disclaiming responsibility for all of the decisions of PCTs. What it actually means is politicians opting out of decisions as to whether or not services are changed.
However superficially attractive this may seem to the tabloids it would result in a situation in which ordinary citizens become powerless in influencing what happens with the NHS. Bringing in proper accountability at PCT level would be far more effective.
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