Milton: Deep-rooted social problems need tackling

Health minister Anne Milton responds to the National Audit Office report on reducing life expectancy inequalities:

“Everyone should have the same opportunities to lead a healthy life no matter where they live. We want the public’s health to be at the very heart of all we do, not just in the NHS but across government.

“This report shows that efforts have been made to address health inequalities but that more needs to be done to tackle the deep-rooted social problems that cause ill health.

“I want to see the NHS, doctors and local government acting at the right time to improve the health of those who need it most.”