Government wins narrow foundation hospitals victory
A government bill containing controversial plans to extend the use of foundation hospitals has made it safely through the House of Commons this afternoon.
The health bill received 302 votes in favour and 285 against.
The government will breath a collective sigh of relief following intense speculation that it could face defeat over one of its flagship policies.
Richard Caborn, the sports minister, was even recalled from Australia to attend the crucial vote. He is now set to miss England’s appearance in the Rugby World Cup Final.
Foundation hospitals have become a bone of contention for Labour, with strong opposition from within the party and the trade union movement.
Ministers hope foundation hospitals will give the best performing NHS trusts greater freedom, spreading good practice and raising standards throughout the health service.
Opponents, on the other hand, are concerned about the wider implications for the NHS, branding the policy ‘creeping privatisation’.
