Simon Fell, Conservative Spokesman for Barrow and Furness, has wished happy birthday to the NHS as it celebrates its 70th birthday on Thursday 5 July, marking 70 years of access to healthcare which is free at the point of use.
The NHS belongs to all of us. It’s a legacy we pass down from generation to generation. And it’s a legacy this Government will protect.
That’s why the Government has announced that it will increase NHS funding by almost £400 million a week – more than £20 billion a year – by 2023/24 as part of a historic long-term funding plan for the NHS.
The NHS must be supported and protected so that it can continue delivering the best quality care for the next 70 years and beyond, which is why the NHS will also produce a new ten-year plan, setting out a long-term vision for the health service to ensure every penny is well spent and services are fit for the future.
Commenting, Simon Fell said:
“I am delighted to wish the NHS a happy 70th birthday. Much has changed since the NHS was founded in 1948, but the fundamental principles are the same: a service which is universal, comprehensive, and free at the point of use.
“The NHS has been there for all of us over the past 70 years, and we must ensure it continues to be there for everyone in the future. Theresa May’s historic funding announcement will guarantee this, and is a fitting birthday present for our world-renowned health service.”
Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Hunt MP said:
“As we celebrate the 70th birthday of the NHS, this Conservative Government remains committed to its future with a historic long-term funding announcement. £394 million extra a week by 2023-24 will ensure the NHS can continue delivering valued services, and improve and adapt for the future.
“This year we have also announced a pay rise for nearly a million of the dedicated staff who make the NHS what it is, and over £200 million of funding for vital health research which will prepare the NHS for the next generation of health challenges.”