Save the NHS

In fact, the petition got almost 170000 signatures, but the Lords simply ignored the wishes of so many people. Wonder if it will be different when (if) they have to be elected.

I guess it's too late, but if I hear any more, I will let you know.

After writing the above ofcourse I realise that an epetition wouldn't have done in the case of the NHS as something fairly instant was needed to intervene in the bill's progress!!

Annobel what's the latest on the petition?? Has it been presented?

I see this am in the press that today there is to be a debate in the commons about the Hillsborough disaster and this is down to an epetition containing over 100,000 signatures which I believe to be the required amount for this to happen. So it seems that epetitions could be the 'vehicle' to get things discussed. The big problem is the publicising and the motivating people to become involved. It seems that this is a specific area of marketing. To garner support a large amount of dedicated work is required with plenty of 'pushy' people involved.

Looks like you were right after all susiecb, how depressing.

A lost battle is a battle one thinks one has lost- Sartre
Agree with GrannyA!

Sadly, the people behind all this can probably afford private health care. But what we must do in this country is make people more accountable for their own health, and by that I mean in a diet, drinking, exercise sort of way. The NHS can't afford to pick up the pieces when people abuse their bodies regardless of the consequences.

susiecb I quite understand why you think it's futile to sign the petition, I used to think that way myself. However, I've campaigned vigorously in recent years on a number of issues and almost all have had at least some measure of success. At the very least I can say that I tried to effect change.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing" is a quote usually attributed to Burke, but what he actually said is: "when bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall, one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle."

After 30 years of working in the NS wriring and conducting public consultations I can tell you they will do what they want with it- not signing - futile!

And me!
Why will the government not listen to the very people they are supposed to be working for?
We are currently trying to save coastguard stations that for some inconceivable reason the government seem to think we can manage without.
With the NHS and the Coastguards I find it amazing that 'experts sat behind desks' know better than the people actually doing the job. Unbelievable!

and me

Me too

Signed.