Press release: Budget good for your health says NHS Confederation
07 Mar 2001
Responding to the budget statement today, NHS Confederation Chief Executive Stephen Thornton said: "The package of tax and benefit measures focused on reducing child poverty will make a significant impact on child health inequalities. This is a clear recognition that economic status has a significant impact on the health of children and is a demonstration of Government's willingness to do something about it. While this will not have an immediate impact on reducing pressure on the NHS, this is a long-term measure that will ensure healthier lives for our children.
Responding to the announcement of new money for capital investment, Mr Thornton said, "this is very good news for so many of our ageing hospitals. We have argued for some time that investment is needed to improve the fabric of buildings and the environment for patients. This money will also enable hospitals to invest in much needed new medical equipment. We are now awaiting further announcements regarding primary care in anticipation that there will be similar investment available for community and mental health services."
Responding to the announcement of a £135m fund for recruitment of front line staff, Mr Thornton said, "the NHS Plan committed us to the recruitment of more front line staff. This budget allocation will help us to meet that commitment.
Our only disappointment is that the cost of tobacco products is only rising in line with inflation, remembering that smoking is one of this country's biggest killers."
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Notes for editors
- The NHS Confederation is uniquely placed to be the voice of NHS management, as the only membership body for all NHS organisations. Our members include more than 95% of NHS trusts and health authorities in England and Wales; primary care groups; health boards in Scotland; and health and social services trusts and boards in Northern Ireland. The new English primary care trusts have joined.
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