The Welsh First Minister faced questioning regarding Labour’s NHS plan during which she struggled to provide satisfactory answers. The plan involves Welsh patients seeking treatment in England to reduce waiting times in Wales, with a reciprocal sharing of best practices promised. However, during a session at the Senedd, the First Minister was pressed for specifics on the plan, including the number of patients it may affect and the associated costs, to which she admitted details were yet to be finalised.
The Welsh Conservative group leader queried the seriousness of the offer compared to previous proposals, urging clarity on potential patient numbers, costs, and the scope of conditions covered. The First Minister responded, acknowledging ongoing discussions and the need for further budget details before finalising the plan. Plaid Cymru’s leader also weighed in, highlighting the importance of effective cooperation between the Welsh and UK Labour governments to benefit Wales, particularly in areas like dentistry.
In her defence, the First Minister cited progress in NHS appointments and advancements in dentistry in Wales, emphasising achievements compared to the previous government’s performance in England. The discussions underscored the complexities of inter-governmental collaborations and the challenges in healthcare planning and delivery. As the dialogue continues between the Welsh and UK authorities, the focus remains on improving healthcare services for the people of Wales and addressing persistent waiting times effectively.