In a major policy shift, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans on Thursday to dismantle NHS England, bringing the management of the health service directly under central government control. Starmer criticized the previous Conservative government’s decision to grant NHS England greater independence, arguing that it led to excessive bureaucracy and inefficiency.
Speaking in East Yorkshire, he stated that decisions involving £200 billion ($259 billion) of taxpayer money should be made by a government accountable to the public, rather than an independent body.
Starmer also questioned the need for a two-tier oversight system, arguing that it diverts resources away from frontline healthcare. “We need to cut bureaucracy and focus the government on the priorities of working people,” he said, emphasizing that funds should be directed toward doctors, nurses, and patient care rather than administrative layers. He pointed out that while the state employs more people than ever, public services remain overstretched and ineffective, calling for a reallocation of resources to improve efficiency.
The proposal’s specifics remain unclear, raising concerns about its impact on local decision-making and service delivery within the NHS. Additionally, Starmer addressed international issues, warning that the UK faces economic instability without peace in Ukraine. He highlighted the security threats posed by Russia, stressing that energy dependence on Moscow, youth unemployment, and weak public finances undermine national strength.
