Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has refrained from labelling the NHS in Wales as “broken,” emphasizing the need for reform and investment. In an ITV Wales interview, the UK Labour leader acknowledged the “challenges” within the Welsh health service, stating he would not deceive the public about its current state. Starmer’s remarks follow his previous comment about the NHS in England being “broken,” but he did not use the same language when addressing the situation in Wales, where Labour has been in power since devolution in 1999.
Starmer stressed that both NHS services in England and Wales face “shared challenges” and highlighted his government’s commitment to addressing these issues. While declining to confirm additional funding for the Welsh NHS, he emphasised the necessity for investment alongside reforms. Echoing the reforms under consideration for the English NHS, Starmer expressed his belief that investment and reform should go hand in hand for the Welsh health service.
Since assuming the role of First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan MS has outlined her priorities, which include reducing NHS waiting times, particularly for mental health services. She also aims to enhance access to social care and improve healthcare services for women. Starmer mentioned that he and Morgan would collaborate in overseeing the NHS in Wales to tackle challenges and seize opportunities across the country.
Furthermore, during a recent visit to Pontypridd, the First Minister addressed concerns about the NHS, advocating for improved GP appointment systems to eliminate long waiting times. Welsh Conservative group leader, Andrew RT Davies, questioned the strategies Morgan could implement as First Minister to alleviate NHS waiting times compared to her previous role as health minister.
While acknowledging the hurdles, Starmer underscored his commitment to working alongside Morgan to confront challenges and exploit opportunities in Wales. The collaborative approach between the UK Labour leader and the First Minister aims to steer the Welsh NHS towards improvement and efficiency.