Health and Social Care Update

Chi Onwurah Excerpts

Thursday 22nd September 2022 Commons Chamber

[Dr Coffey]

I understand why my right hon. Friend makes that point, recognising that many other countries in Europe take that approach. However, that is not the approach we are going to take under this Government.

[Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab)]

My constituents face intolerable delays in A&E, for an appointment, for referral for mental health treatment, or for an ambulance. Those who work in the NHS face plummeting morale, effective pay cuts and staff shortages. The Secretary of State’s response is to aspire to a GP waiting time that is seven times longer than Labour actually achieved. Is it not the case that the NHS is not, has not been, and never can be safe in Tory hands?

[Dr Coffey]

I do not agree with the hon. Lady at all.