BMA: Competition still threatens the NHS
The British Medical Association's chairman of council, Dr Hamish Meldrum, comments on David Cameron's speech outlining concessions to the government's NHS reforms:
"It is encouraging that many of the concerns about the bill that the BMA has repeatedly raised have been taken on board. However, as always, it will be the reality of the changes that is important.
"The prime minister's speech suggests he is committed to integrated NHS services, and the involvement of a wider range of staff in their design.
"However, he also spoke in glowing terms about the benefits of competition, and we would point to the many damaging effects its application in the NHS has had so far.
"It is positive that he recognises the need for a level playing field, with private providers contributing to the costs of training, and unable to cherry-pick the most profitable services.
"While we obviously await the details of the Future Forum report, and the amendments to the bill, today's speech is an indication of a significant step in the right direction."
