As I write this on Wednesday morning before the paper’s deadline I am looking forward to two exciting events and great opportunities today.
First I have hit the jackpot in winning on the lottery of the House of Commons selection process, a 90-minute debate in Westminster Hall on the NHS and the private sector. This will allow me to acknowledge the private sector for the public-private partnerships that have always been essential to the NHS, for example the pharmaceutical industry, community pharmacies and care homes as I am not doctrinally or politically opposed to use of the private sector when it is appropriate for the NHS. Then I will move on to the current controversial issues, independent sector treatment centres, clinical assessment, treatment and support services and the private finance initiative. I will ask questions about these services in the light of reports and try to gauge whether the threats to the NHS as Aneurin Bevan founded it, are real. There are worrying views that opening up the NHS to competition could make it subject to European competition law.
During my debate, the House of Lords reform debate will be concluding in the main chamber. I hope to listen to the wind-up speeches. Amendments have been put forward to the seven alternative proposals for the formation of the House in addition to motions for the abolition of the second chamber and the removal of the remaining hereditary peers. It is going to be complicated to follow the process and to be certain whether one is voting on an amendment or the original proposal. All the votes will be free to members of the two largest parties so they will have to decide for themselves rather than follow their whips! I hope this will produce a result.
Concerns about cuts in bus services in Wyre Forest continue, particularly local services between Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport. These services may not be commercially viable but as they are vital for older people, those without cars, and to encourage all of us to use our cars less, they must be maintained despite costs to the county council.