The new Health Secretary Wes Streeting has refused to rule out introducing charges for NHS treatments
Being interviewed at the Tony Blair Institute Wes Streeting refused to confirm that the NHS will remain free at the point of use
Instead he told the audience:
“Free at the point of use is about fairness and equity and defending a system that means when you fall ill you do not have to worry about the bill. And I think that is an equitable principle that is worth fighting for.”
He added: “However, people are already making the choice, and what we’re seeing is the opening up of a two-tier system, where those who can afford it are paying to go private and those who can’t are being left behind.”
In a wide ranging interview Streeting said that the Department of Health and Social Care should not only be seen as a public services department but also as a department for national economic growth
He also vowed to end the “begging bowl” relationship between the Department of Health and Social Care and the Treasury, saying the NHS can help drive growth
During the interview with journalist Jon Sopel, Streeting said cutting NHS waiting times is his “immediate focus” but that Labour will also be “embarking on a long-term plan for both health and social care”.
