Labour rule out independent inquiry of Welsh NHS, despite Ombudsman report
Welsh Labour’s First Minister has once again ruled out holding an independent – ‘Keogh style’ – inquiry into the Welsh NHS, despite the publication today of a critical report into out-of-hours care in Wales.
The report was published by the Public Services Ombudsman and is based on 12 individual case studies which demonstrate “significant clinical failings” during out of hours provision in Wales.
Welsh Conservatives say the findings underscore the need for an independent Keogh-style inquiry into broader Welsh NHS standards, and Shadow Health Minister, Darren Millar AM, yesterday reiterated his calls for one.
The issue was again raised during First Minister’s Questions today by Welsh Conservative Leader, Andrew RT Davies.
During a heated exchange he called on the First Minister to hold a wide-ranging inquiry; calls which were once again rebuffed.
Speaking outside the chamber, Mr Davies said:
“Labour remain in denial as to the state of the Welsh NHS, despite a long list of reports which identify serious shortfalls in care standards.
“An independent inquiry would address the very real concerns of clinicians and see proper structures put in place to protect Welsh communities.
“Welsh Conservatives have called for this for several years and it’s high time Labour ministers set the wheels in motion.
“Standards of care within Labour’s Welsh NHS are the subject of worry and concern. The evidence is stacking up and can no longer be swept under the carpet.
“Labour AMs should stop burying their heads in the sand and take a lead from their colleague Ann Clwyd who has consistently put patients ahead of party interest. The abject failure of Labour AMs to do the same lets patients and staff down and, ultimately, puts patients at risk.
“In May voters will have an opportunity to secure the real change the Welsh NHS needs by electing a Welsh Conservative Government, and we will make no apologies for putting standards of NHS care at the very top of the agenda.”
