NHs Care must be based on need, not on ability to pay - Webb
Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, Steve Webb MP has responded to the open letter from Doctors For Reform to the leaders of all parties by reiterating the Liberal Democrats' commitment to an NHS based on need, not ability to pay.
Mr Webb said:
"The Doctors are correct to say that we need to tackle the ever rising demand for healthcare. They are wrong to say that we should discourage people from accessing the healthcare they need by charging them.
"The best way of containing demand for the NHS is through a focus on the prevention of ill-health, and this is an agenda the Government hasn't begun to address.
"The Liberal Democrats are reviewing their policies on health and welcome fresh thinking but the principle of an NHS based on need, not ability to pay, will always be central."