Keeping HOPE 5 January, 2008

This week David Cameron came to make a very unappreciated speech on the NHS. In contrast to PM Brown’s tough talk no action sound bite on employment. DC’s speech I know will prove to be a landmark moment for the NHS when the Conservative get into government, he spoke about the tough long term reform that only a Conservative government can deliver.

For me it is always a pleasure to meet the hardest working shadow cabinet member Andrew Landsley. In passing I mentioned to him that if only half the shadow cabinet worked as hard as he does and where as thorough with their brief the Conservative Party would be far closed to power then they are now. He gave that sly grin that said you’re too right but I could not possibly comment.

I am please to read that DC has pledged to make him Health Minister in his Government, to ensure much lacking continuity in the NHS.

He then explained in some detail why our opposition to the closure of Hope hospital is both practical and principled, and how a Conservative government would keep local services.

I was very much reassured, IDS started it but I never thought id see the day where I could say with some confidence the Conservative party is the party of the NHS.

DC’s said to me in private he must come to Salford again soon as he is a massive Smiths fan. I did not have the guts to tell him I was too young to know who they where, but I most certainly would not pass up the opportunity to have him back, it was so inspirational meeting him.