The Shadow Health Secretary has called on the Conservative Party to feel ashamed for their NHS track record. Stuart Andrew MP defended the Tory record at a recent event despite a significant increase in waiting lists during their tenure, reaching a record high of 7.7 million. This surge in waiting lists is nearly three times higher than in 2010, with over 300,000 individuals waiting over a year for treatment.

Andrew highlighted the achievements made for the National Health Service, emphasizing the importance of diagnosis centers and significant investments brought in by the Tories. In contrast, at the Labour party conference, the Prime Minister unveiled plans for an “online hospital” to be operational by 2027, aiming to reduce wait times by offering additional appointments through the NHS App.

Criticism has been directed at the Tories by UNISON, labeling the current NHS crisis as the worst in history. UNISON’s general secretary, Christina McAnea, rebuked the Tories for their mismanagement of services, alleged favoritism in awarding contracts, and failure to provide adequate pay raises to staff. Helen Morgan MP, the Liberal Democrat Health spokesperson, also condemned the Tories for their handling of the NHS, urging the shadow health secretary to seek medical advice for what she referred to as a severe case of audacity.

The defense of the Tory record contradicts public statements made by the party, with Neil O’Brien acknowledging on a podcast that the health service did not meet their expectations upon leaving office. The ongoing debate underscores the contentious nature of healthcare management in the UK.