Streeting Commends Overseas Healthcare Workers While Criticizing Reform UK’s NHS Policies
Wes Streeting, the current health secretary, expressed on LBC this morning his strong opposition to Reform UK’s proposal to abolish indefinite leave to remain status, including for those already granted permanent residency in the UK. He warned that such a policy would severely damage the NHS.
When questioned about the potential consequences, Streeting responded:
This would be catastrophic.
Countless doctors, nurses, and care professionals earning under £60,000 annually have immigrated here and contributed immensely-not only through taxes but by serving our nation’s health system.
Forcing these individuals to leave would be a grave mistake.
In my address at today’s Labour Party conference, I want to reassure those worried about their future: while Nigel Farage tells you to ‘go home,’ I say, ‘this is your home.’ We deeply appreciate the vital roles you play in our NHS, social care, and wider society.
Streeting further highlighted another risk Reform UK poses to the NHS, noting Farage’s past endorsement of an insurance-based healthcare model. He elaborated:
Such a system prioritizes your wallet over your wellbeing. It could demand payment upfront before providing care.
This is not the vision most people in this country desire. Greater awareness of Reform UK’s NHS policies would likely diminish public confidence in them.
Additionally, Streeting expressed his dismay at Farage’s apparent dismissal of scientific evidence.
When questioned about the safety of paracetamol for pregnant women amid controversy, Farage refused to take a stance, ignoring the consensus of medical experts.
That kind of indecision undermines trust in anyone responsible for healthcare.
Moreover, Farage’s decision to feature a speaker at his conference who claimed the Covid vaccine caused cancer in the royal family further erodes his credibility on health matters.
Streeting concluded with a pointed remark:
If Nigel Farage is following such questionable health advice, perhaps that explains why he appears decades older than his actual age, unlike Brad Pitt.
During a discussion hosted by Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, the former Labour politician turned television presenter expressed confusion over Keir Starmer’s approach, which he described as “the politics of patriotic renewal”. Balls admitted, “Honestly, I have no clue what that actually means.”
In reply, Wes Streeting emphasized that Starmer’s upcoming speech would articulate a clear vision. He stressed the importance of this vision resonating beyond words, impacting people’s everyday lives-whether through their finances, job security, their children’s prospects, or the assurance that the NHS will be there when needed.
At the Labour conference in Liverpool, delegates and activists were advised to remain alert by Lynne Morris, chair of the conference arrangements committee, following a solo pro-Palestine demonstration during Rachel Reeves’s address. Morris urged attendees to promptly report any suspicious behavior or unfamiliar individuals seated nearby to staff or stewards, ensuring the event’s safety.
Lynne Morris opened the third day of the conference with this caution: “To maintain a secure environment, please be vigilant and immediately notify a staff member or steward if you notice anything concerning. If someone unfamiliar is sitting with your delegation or close by, please alert the regional, Scottish, or Welsh teams.”
In an interview with GB News, Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticized the British Medical Association (BMA) for obstructing NHS progress. Addressing the BMA’s resistance to a new initiative that would allow patients to book GP appointments online, Streeting remarked:
“Frankly, the BMA is letting people down by suggesting GPs oppose online access. In reality, many GPs already offer this service; our goal is to ensure it’s universally available.”
“The BMA needs to collaborate with us rather than oppose these changes. Throughout my first year as health secretary, the BMA has consistently challenged reforms week after week. I genuinely want us to work together as partners.”
“The choice is clear: either a Labour government revitalizes the NHS, an achievement we’ll be proud of for decades, or if the BMA continues to hinder progress, conservative forces will prevail, potentially leading to a Reform UK government under Nigel Farage, who does not support the NHS.”
“That’s not the future I envision, and there is no alternative health secretary or government more committed to doctors, patients, and the NHS than us.”
Wes Streeting also condemned NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme for issuing guidance that portrayed first-cousin marriages as having certain advantages. The Mail on Sunday recently revealed that the programme’s advice acknowledged increased genetic risks but also cited benefits such as “stronger extended family support systems and economic advantages (resources, property and inheritance can be consolidated rather than diluted across households).”
Streeting, speaking on LBC, called for an apology from the Genomics Education Programme, stating:
“I first became aware of this when I saw the report and immediately questioned what was going on. The guidance has since been removed, but it should never have been published.”
“Medical evidence is unequivocal: first-cousin marriages carry significant genetic risks and cause harm.”
When asked if an apology was warranted, he affirmed, “Absolutely, I believe they should apologize.”
Meanwhile, Conservative MP Richard Holden is advocating for legislation to prohibit first-cousin marriages in the UK, though the government has yet to endorse this proposal.
Addressing immigration policy, Streeting warned that Reform UK’s proposal to revoke indefinite leave to remain-including from individuals already granted permanent residency-would be catastrophic for the NHS. He explained:
“It would be disastrous. Many NHS workers, including doctors, nurses, and care staff earning under £60,000, have come to this country and contributed not only through taxes but through their dedicated service.”
“Sending these individuals away would be a grave mistake.”
“In my speech at the Labour conference, I want to reassure those worried about their future: while Nigel Farage tells you to ‘go home,’ I say, ‘You are home,’ and I deeply appreciate your invaluable contributions to our health and social care systems and to the nation.”
Streeting further highlighted the threat Reform UK poses to the NHS, noting Farage’s past support for an insurance-based healthcare model. He elaborated:
“Such a system prioritizes your wallet over your well-being, potentially requiring payment before care.”
“This is not the future most people in this country desire. If the public were more aware of Reform UK’s NHS policies, their confidence in the party would diminish.”
He also expressed shock at Farage’s disregard for scientific consensus, referencing an incident where Farage, when questioned about the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy, claimed neutrality despite medical experts’ warnings. Streeting remarked:
“When asked whose side he was on, Farage said, ‘I don’t have a side.’ That’s not someone who should be entrusted with our healthcare.”
“Moreover, Farage’s decision to feature a speaker at his conference who falsely claimed the Covid vaccine caused cancer in the royal family further undermines his credibility.”
Concluding with a pointed remark, Streeting quipped:
“If that’s the kind of health advice Nigel Farage follows, perhaps that explains why he’s the same age as Brad Pitt but looks two decades older.”
Keir Starmer is highlighting the introduction of “NHS Online,” a virtual hospital service for England, as a prime example of the government’s commitment to “national renewal.”
During his upcoming address at the conference, Starmer is anticipated to emphasize:
This marks a transformative era for our NHS, embracing innovation and empowering patients. We aim to reduce waiting times for every individual across the nation. This is what national renewal looks like-a Britain that works for everyone.
Labour has announced that the “NHS Online” platform will launch in 2027, projecting it will facilitate up to 8.5 million appointments and assessments within its initial three years.
Starmer is expected to further state:
Looking ahead, I want this moment to be remembered as the turning point when we revitalized the NHS to meet the demands of the modern world.
In a detailed briefing, Labour outlined how “NHS Online” will operate:
Accessible via the NHS app, this online hospital is central to Labour’s vision for a future-ready NHS. Since Labour took office, the NHS has delivered an additional five million appointments.
Patients will retain the option to choose between NHS Online and their local hospital. Those opting for the online service can manage prescriptions, receive referrals for scans and tests, and obtain clinical guidance-all from their homes.
When in-person tests or procedures are necessary, appointments will be scheduled through the app at convenient locations near the patient’s home or workplace, including hospitals, surgical hubs, or Community Diagnostic Centres.
The rollout will initially target treatments with the longest waiting times, gradually expanding to cover more services.
Labour also shared three case studies demonstrating the success of virtual consultations in hospitals:
At University Hospital Southampton, outpatient clinics faced overwhelming follow-up appointments for patients with mild inflammatory bowel disease flare-ups. They implemented a virtual follow-up system allowing patients to initiate care remotely as needed, rather than attending routine appointments. Digital tools helped monitor symptoms and guide decisions, resulting in a 73% decrease in consultant-led outpatient visits, over 75% of patients managed virtually, and a 58% reduction in waiting times.
Moorfields Eye Hospital tackled long delays in referral reviews, which caused patient anxiety. They introduced a Single Point of Access for virtual triage across multiple providers, consolidating referrals into one system. Staff digitally assessed each referral to determine urgency and appropriate care location, prioritizing urgent cases, directing routine ones to the right clinics, or promptly informing patients if referrals were unsuitable. This reduced referral processing time from 11 hours to two, with 58% of urgent referrals safely downgraded to routine clinics.
At Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, a collaboration with Medefer enabled virtual triage of 99% of referrals within 48 hours. This approach allowed 79% of patients to be seen virtually and 82% to be discharged without face-to-face appointments, showcasing how digital triage can efficiently manage large patient volumes while maintaining safety.
Labour’s Position on Budget Taxation and Calls for Fiscal Responsibility
The Labour Party has recently indicated a willingness to consider raising taxes in the upcoming budget, signaling a shift in their fiscal approach. This move comes amid appeals from key figures within the party urging for disciplined financial management to address the nation’s economic challenges.
In contrast to previous stances, Labour’s openness to tax increases reflects a pragmatic response to the current economic environment. The party emphasizes the necessity of balancing public spending with sustainable revenue streams to ensure long-term economic stability.
For instance, just as a household might adjust its budget by increasing income through additional work or investments to cover rising expenses, Labour suggests that the government must similarly explore revenue enhancements to fund essential services without exacerbating debt.
Media coverage has highlighted this development, with some outlets framing it as a continuation of familiar tax burdens, while others focus on the party’s commitment to fiscal discipline. The debate underscores the complexities of managing public finances in a way that supports growth while maintaining fairness.
Ultimately, Labour’s approach seeks to reconcile the need for increased public investment with responsible economic stewardship, aiming to foster a resilient economy capable of meeting future demands.
Among the various headlines, one publication offers a particularly pointed assertion. The Daily Mail reports that the government is weighing the possibility of introducing VAT on private healthcare in the upcoming budget. According to their sources:
Insiders from Whitehall have revealed to the Daily Mail that the Treasury is exploring the option of applying VAT to sectors currently exempt, with private healthcare and financial services reportedly under consideration.
Implementing VAT on private healthcare could generate an estimated £2 billion in revenue for the Treasury, but this move would impact as many as eight million middle-income households.
Hilary Benn Warns Farage’s Proposal to Exit ECHR Threatens Good Friday Agreement
Hilary Benn, Northern Ireland Secretary, addressed the conference this morning, invoking the legacy of Tony Blair and the Good Friday Agreement while criticizing Reform UK’s stance.
The Good Friday Agreement marked a pivotal shift for Northern Ireland, steering it away from decades of violent conflict towards a path of peace and development.
This achievement stands as the most significant success of the previous Labour government.
It demanded bravery and persistent diplomacy.
Yet, Nigel Farage aims to jeopardize this progress by advocating for the UK’s withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights.
Given Northern Ireland’s turbulent history, such a move is profoundly irresponsible.
It is reckless and must be prevented at all costs.
Unison Applauds £500 Million Investment for Fair Pay in Care Sector but Calls for Greater Funding
Unison, a prominent health union, has expressed support for the government’s £500 million pledge aimed at establishing a fair pay agreement for adult care workers, while emphasizing that this sum is only a starting point.
Christina McAnea, Unison’s General Secretary, stated:
Addressing the fragmented and crisis-ridden care sector begins with enhancing wages through a fair pay agreement, supported by adequate funding.
Improved pay will foster a sense of value among staff, aid recruitment efforts, and encourage workers to remain in their roles longer.
While the current funding is a positive step, significantly more investment is essential to build the national care service the public deserves.
The Department of Health and Social Care outlined:
A new negotiating body comprising employers and trade unions will be created to discuss pay and working conditions for care workers.
This entity aims to enhance recruitment and retention by recognizing the vital contributions of care staff, with wage increases expected by 2028.
This funding follows immediate government measures such as a £2,000 increase in carers’ allowance and expanded Disabled Facilities Grants to support 15,000 additional home adaptations.
A public consultation on the Fair Pay Agreement process design has also been launched.
The Adult Social Care Negotiating Body will be formally established through regulations in 2026, with the first Fair Pay Agreement implemented in 2028.
Updated at 05:37 EDT
Wes Streeting Highlights Tony Blair’s Potential Role in Gaza Based on Northern Ireland Experience
Health Secretary Wes Streeting suggested that Tony Blair could contribute positively to Gaza’s governance under the peace plan proposed by Donald Trump.
Speaking on LBC, Streeting acknowledged Blair’s controversial decision to involve the UK in the Iraq war as a “catastrophic mistake” with severe repercussions, which he personally opposed.
However, Streeting emphasized Blair’s successful mediation in Northern Ireland, where he helped broker the Good Friday Agreement, as evidence of his capacity to foster peace. He remarked:
Tony Blair’s enduring legacy includes his work in Northern Ireland, where he united adversaries to achieve lasting peace.
If Blair can apply those diplomatic skills in Gaza, and if he has the trust of Israelis, Palestinians, and regional stakeholders, his involvement could be beneficial.
Contrastingly, other political groups remain skeptical. The SNP recently condemned the idea of Blair’s role in Gaza as a “sick joke” and urged Labour leader Keir Starmer to oppose it.
Ed Balls Questions Meaning Behind Keir Starmer’s ‘Patriotic Renewal’ Message
During an interview on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, former Labour politician and current presenter Ed Balls challenged Health Secretary Wes Streeting on the clarity of Keir Starmer’s theme of “patriotic renewal.” Balls admitted, “I’ve got to say, I have no idea what that means.”
Streeting responded by emphasizing that Starmer’s speech would articulate a vision that resonates beyond rhetoric, impacting people’s finances, livelihoods, their children’s futures, and ensuring the NHS remains accessible when needed.
Labour Conference Organizers Urge Delegates to Stay Alert Amid Potential Disruptions
Ahead of Keir Starmer’s keynote address, the Labour Party’s conference arrangements committee chair has called on activists and delegates in Liverpool to remain vigilant. This follows a solo pro-Palestine protest during Rachel Reeves’s speech on Monday.
Lynne Morris opened the third day of the conference with a safety announcement, urging attendees to report any suspicious behavior immediately to staff or stewards.
She advised, “If you notice someone unfamiliar sitting near you or in your delegation, or if you have any concerns, please notify the regional, Scottish, or Welsh teams.”
Keir Starmer and Victoria Starmer Seen Walking Along the River Mersey Near Conference Venue
Streeting Criticizes BMA, Warning That Continued Opposition to Labour NHS Reforms Could Open Door for Reform UK
It seems a common pattern that those appointed as health secretary often develop a critical stance toward the British Medical Association (BMA). In a recent interview with GB News, Wes Streeting openly criticized the BMA for impeding progress within the NHS.
Addressing the BMA’s resistance to a new initiative aimed at providing patients with online access to GP appointments, Streeting remarked:
“Frankly, I believe the BMA is undermining efforts by suggesting that GPs oppose online access. In reality, many GPs have already embraced this, and our goal is to ensure it becomes universal.”
“They need to collaborate with us rather than obstruct. Throughout my first year as health and social care secretary, the BMA has frequently opposed initiatives week after week. I genuinely want us to work together as partners.”
“The choice ahead is clear: either a Labour government revitalizes the NHS, an achievement we will take pride in for years, or if the BMA continues to block reforms and conservative forces prevail, we risk a Reform UK government led by Nigel Farage, who does not support the NHS.”
“That is not the future I envision. There is no other health secretary or government more committed to the NHS, doctors, and patients than us.”
Wes Streeting during today’s interview. Photo credit: Adam Vaughan/EPA
Streeting Demands Apology from NHS Body Over Controversial Guidance on First-Cousin Marriages
Wes Streeting, the current health secretary, has condemned an NHS organization for issuing guidance that suggested first-cousin marriages might have certain advantages.
As reported by the Mail on Sunday, NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme had published advice acknowledging that while first-cousin marriages increase the risk of genetic disorders in offspring, they also purportedly offer benefits such as “stronger extended family support networks and economic advantages, including consolidated resources, property, and inheritance.”
Speaking on LBC, Streeting expressed his disapproval and called for a formal apology from the Genomics Education Programme:
“I first became aware of this when I saw the report and immediately questioned what was going on and what their intentions were.”
“Although the guidance has been withdrawn, it’s baffling why it was ever published.”
“The scientific evidence is unequivocal.”
“Marriages between first cousins carry significant risks and are unsafe; we witness the genetic defects and harm they cause.”
“Such advice should never have been released.”
When asked if an apology was warranted, Streeting affirmed, “Yes, absolutely.”
Meanwhile, Conservative MP Richard Holden is advocating for legislation to prohibit first-cousin marriages in the UK, though the government has yet to endorse this proposal.
Streeting Commends Overseas NHS Staff and Warns Reform UK Would Be a Catastrophe for Healthcare
Wes Streeting, speaking on LBC, criticized Reform UK’s proposal to revoke indefinite leave to remain status, including for those already granted permanent residency, calling it a “disaster” for the NHS.
On the potential consequences, he stated:
“This policy would be catastrophic.”
“Thousands of doctors, nurses, care workers, and NHS employees earning under £60,000 have come to this country and contributed immensely-not only through taxes but through their dedicated service.”
“Sending these individuals away would be a grave mistake.”
“My message at the Labour party conference today is clear: to those worried about their future, while Nigel Farage says ‘go home,’ I say ‘you are home.’ We deeply appreciate your invaluable contributions to our health and social care systems and to the nation.”
Streeting also highlighted another threat posed by Reform UK, noting Farage’s past support for an insurance-based healthcare model:
“Such a system prioritizes your wallet over your wellbeing, potentially demanding payment before care is provided.”
“This is not the future the British public desires. Greater awareness of Reform UK’s NHS policies would likely diminish their support.”
He further expressed shock at Farage’s disregard for scientific consensus:
“When questioned about the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy, despite clear medical advice, Farage claimed neutrality.”
“That’s not the stance of someone fit to oversee healthcare.”
“Moreover, giving a platform to a speaker who alleged the Covid vaccine caused cancer in the royal family undermines trust.”
Streeting concluded with a pointed remark:
“If that’s the kind of health advice Nigel Farage follows, perhaps it explains why he looks decades older than his actual age.”
Wes Streeting during this morning’s interview. Photo credit: Paul Ellis/AFP/Getty Images
Starmer Highlights ‘NHS Online’ Virtual Hospital Initiative as a Symbol of Labour’s Vision for National Renewal
Keir Starmer is promoting the upcoming “NHS Online” project-an innovative virtual hospital for England-as a prime example of Labour’s commitment to “national renewal.”
In his forthcoming conference address, Starmer is expected to declare:
“This marks a new chapter for our NHS, embracing the future with patients empowered to take control. Waiting times will be reduced for everyone across the country. This is national renewal-a Britain built for all.”
Labour plans to launch “NHS Online” starting in 2027, projecting it will facilitate up to 8.5 million appointments and assessments within its first three years.
Starmer is also anticipated to say:
“Years from now, I want this moment to be remembered as when we transformed the NHS for a modern era.”
According to Labour’s briefing, the service will operate through the NHS app, which has already enabled an additional five million appointments since Labour took office.
“Patients will retain the option to choose between NHS Online and their local hospital. Those opting in can manage prescriptions, receive referrals for scans and tests, and obtain clinical advice-all from home.”
“If in-person tests or procedures are necessary, appointments will be scheduled at convenient locations near patients’ homes or workplaces, including hospitals, surgical hubs, or Community Diagnostic Centres.”
“Initially, NHS Online will focus on treatments with the longest waiting times, gradually expanding to cover more services.”
Labour also cites successful examples of virtual consultations at several hospitals:
“University Hospital Southampton developed a virtual follow-up system for patients with low-risk inflammatory bowel disease, reducing consultant-led outpatient visits by 73%, managing over 75% of patients remotely, and cutting waiting times by 58%.”
“Moorfields Eye Hospital introduced a Single Point of Access for virtual triage, streamlining referral assessments and reducing processing time from 11 hours to two, with 58% of urgent referrals safely downgraded.”
“Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust partnered with Medefer to triage 99% of referrals virtually within 48 hours, enabling 79% of patients to be seen remotely and 82% discharged without face-to-face appointments.”
Wes Streeting Denies Reports That Reeves Will Introduce VAT on Private Healthcare in Upcoming Budget
Good morning. As Keir Starmer prepares to deliver his keynote speech at the Labour conference, many see this as a crucial moment for his political resurgence this year. While speeches are largely rhetorical, the upcoming budget on 26 November will be a defining fiscal and policy event for Labour.
Starmer’s address comes amid widespread speculation about potential tax hikes this autumn, fueled by comments from Chancellor Rachel Reeves at the conference. Several newspapers have highlighted the general expectation of increased taxes.
However, the Daily Mail has reported that the government is contemplating applying VAT to currently exempt services, including private healthcare and financial services, potentially raising £2 billion but affecting up to eight million middle-class families.
“Whitehall insiders told the Daily Mail that the Treasury is exploring options to add VAT to exempt services, with private healthcare and financial services among the targets.”
“Introducing VAT on private healthcare could generate £2bn but would impact millions of middle-class households.”
Wes Streeting, during his morning media appearances, was unusually direct in addressing this issue. On BBC Breakfast, presenter Jon Kay anticipated that Streeting would avoid commenting on budget specifics but asked about the principle of taxing private healthcare. Streeting responded:
“I’m going to surprise you. It’s not happening.”
When pressed for a guarantee, he reiterated:
“Absolutely not happening.”
Streeting also discussed two major health-related announcements made this morning:
- NHS England is launching an innovative ‘online hospital’ called NHS Online. This digital-first model will connect patients with expert clinicians across England without a physical location. The service is expected to be available to patients starting in 2027.
More updates from Streeting’s interviews will be shared shortly.
Today’s conference schedule includes:
9:30 AM: Conference opens. Speakers include Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire mayor (10:00 AM), Hilary Benn, Northern Ireland secretary (10:10 AM), Heidi Alexander, transport secretary (10:20 AM), and Wes Streeting, health secretary (11:50 AM).
11:30 AM: Education secretary Bridget Phillipson participates in a Q&A at the Centre for Social Justice fringe event.
2:00 PM: Keir Starmer delivers his keynote speech.
4:00 PM: Culture secretary Lisa Nandy takes part in a Sky Sports Q&A at the fringe.
5:00 PM: Home secretary Shabana Mahmood joins a Tony Blair Institute Q&A at the fringe.
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Labour Conference 2025: Key Figures and Health Sector Focus
The upcoming Labour Conference in 2025 is set to spotlight pivotal discussions around the UK’s political landscape, with prominent leaders such as Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting taking center stage. This event promises to delve deeply into pressing issues, particularly the future of the National Health Service (NHS) and the welfare of care workers, which remain critical topics for the party and the public alike.
Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, is expected to outline a comprehensive vision for the NHS, emphasizing sustainable funding and improved access to healthcare services. Alongside him, Wes Streeting, known for his advocacy on health and social care, will likely highlight the challenges faced by frontline workers and propose strategies to enhance their working conditions and support systems.
In addition to health policy, the conference will address broader political dynamics, including the ongoing impact of Brexit and the role of opposition parties such as Nigel Farage’s Brexit Party. These discussions will provide insight into Labour’s stance on national unity and economic recovery post-Brexit, aiming to resonate with a wide spectrum of voters.
Moreover, the conference will feature contributions from influential figures like Ed Balls, who will bring perspectives on economic policy and social justice, reinforcing Labour’s commitment to equitable growth and public service investment. The involvement of trade unions, including UNISON, underscores the party’s dedication to representing workers’ rights and ensuring fair treatment across sectors.
As the Labour Conference approaches, the focus on healthcare, social care, and political strategy highlights the party’s intent to address the UK’s most urgent societal challenges. By fostering dialogue among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community advocates, the event aims to shape a progressive agenda that prioritizes the wellbeing of all citizens.
