Government has no clear NHS England abolishment plan

Cross-party MPs warn that the government is repealing NHS England, there is no clear plan and how to benefit frontline care.

Ministers announced in March that agencies overseeing health services in England would be shipped to the Ministry of Health and Social Care.

But the Public Accounts Commission said it was concerned about the uncertainty arising and urged the government to develop clear plans over the next three months.

The government said the move would eliminate "waste duplication" and that detailed plans have begun.

In addition to changes at the national level, the 42 local health boards responsible for the planned services must also abandon half of their 25,000 employees.

Members of Congress also raise concerns about the amount of money the lawyers raises from clinical negligence claims. Nearly one-fifth of the legal fees paid in 2023-24.

It says it is unacceptable and more things must be done to improve security.

Sir Jeffrey Clifton Brown, chairman of the committee and Conservative MP, said changes in the NHS England and local health boards constituted a major structural reform.

He said strong decision-making and experienced staff are crucial to managing the "tremendous pressure" of the NHS.

"It has been two months since the government's decision to remove it so far, without clarifying the next step, and the future of patients and employees remains hazy."

NHS England has nearly 15,000 employees and is responsible for £133 million in public sector funding this year.

The reduction in staff to abolish NHS England is expected to save £400 million, while cuts in local health board staff are expected to increase £700 million.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Health and Social Care said the changes would eliminate “waste duplication” and the joint committee is already developing detailed plans.

She added: “Serious reforms are needed to address the challenges facing the NHS.”

Matthew Taylor, NHS federal CEO who represents NHS Trusts, said the changes marked the biggest reshaping of the NHS in a decade.

He said that while many managers in the NHS understand the need for change, the lack of details and plans for the upcoming 10-year plan are “the reason for the focus” of health service staff.