Hull MP celebrates 60 years of our NHS

With 5 July marking the 60th birthday of the National Health Service, Hull North MP Diana Johnson has paid tribute to the NHS and those who work in it.

Along with the Secretary of State for Health, Alan Johnson MP, Diana will be participating in local events this weekend to celebrate 60 years of the NHS with those who use and work in Hull's NHS.

Hull North MP Diana Johnson said: "One of the main reasons why I wanted to be the MP for Hull North was my belief in our NHS - and improving it in Hull.

"As we celebrate 60 years of the NHS on 5 July, we should take time to thank the wonderful NHS staff who look after us when we need care and attention.

"I believe that the NHS is one of our country's greatest achievements and a profound source of pride for my party. The NHS is a vital public service that is available to all based on medical need - not ability to pay.

"The 1945 Labour Government overcame post-war austerity, Tory opposition and powerful vested interests to set up our NHS. The 60 years since have not always been easy and the NHS nearly did not survive 18 years of cuts under the Tories from 1979.

"I can remember that 20 years ago, on the 40th birthday of the NHS, we were sending the NHS a 'get well soon' card rather than a birthday card!

"Tory opposition to NHS investment and reform since 1997 shows that the NHS would not be safe under any future Tory government and the Lib Dems have even debated replacing the NHS with a private health insurance scheme.

"I am glad that the NHS reaches 60 in much better shape than in 1988 - and looking to the future with more frontline staff and massive investment in new NHS facilities at Castle Hill and elsewhere.

"Sixty years since we founded it, Labour is modernising the NHS. Our mission is to make the NHS a more personal health service, with expanding choice to fit the needs of families and focused on preventing ill health as well as curing it.

"That is why Labour's Health Secretary Alan Johnson has asked me to find out more about what people in Hull think about the NHS - and how it can improve. I am contacting Hull North constituents for their views on making the NHS fit for modern life."

Health Secretary Alan Johnson said: "Diana Johnson MP is a real advocate for the NHS in Parliament. Please take some time to tell her what you about our Health Service. I know Diana will certainly tell me what you think!"