Another Tory MP crosses the floor

Callistemon21

Yes, the NHS in Wales is in dire straits, particularly mental health services.

Whether that is from lack of funding from Westminster or poor management, I do not know.

If you look at empirical studies, the main underlying issue is the poor health state of the nation of Wales, which compares with the most deprived parts of the rest of the UK. So comparing Wales with a region of England with similar population and levels of deprivation gives a more accurate comparison than with England as a whole. Simplistic political management comparisons are completely meaningless.

Yes, the NHS in Wales is in dire straits, particularly mental health services.

Whether that is from lack of funding from Westminster or poor management, I do not know.

Primrose53

Never heard of him until today. If he thinks the NHS under Labour will be great he should look to the mess Wales is in under Labour. 😉

You clearly didn’t read his statement Primrose 53.

Never heard of him until today. If he thinks the NHS under Labour will be great he should look to the mess Wales is in under Labour. 😉

He’s continued working for the NHS whilst an MP as I understand it, so he hasn’t defected to Labour to save his NHS career. From what I’ve read he’s a decent man, and he’s acted in accordance with his conscience which is laudable.
I have always felt though that when MPs defect they are effectively resigning the position they were appointed to, and they should stand down and a by-election should be held.

His very part time work as a doctor is worthwhile keeping feet on the ground - another MP who does this is Labour shadow cabinet member for Mental Health Rosena Allin-Khan.

Compare it to MP's earning thousands for "consultancies"? these doctors are not doing it for the cash!

www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-68913287 short and worth a read.

Respect - he is a psychiatrist in the grossly underfunded Mental Health Sector and his attitude

"Dr Poulter said he could have carried on to the election and then stood down, or triggered a by-election, adding: "I thought on balance, because there's going to be an election very soon, it's better to work for my constituents through to the end of this Parliament."

Conservatives said "Labour has no plans for NHS" but this document has been out for some time

labour.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mission-Public-Services.pdf

I am pleased that he is indicating where he thinks the NHS is best served before he steps down.

Of course those with professional qualifications are encouraged to work in their profession part time whilst serving as MPs.

I saw that, and while am all for anyone defecting to the Labour Party, did wonder if it was to save his job come the next election.Also, how can he be a doctor and an MP at the same time?

I just saw this but didn't know he was returning to his previous post- so well done if this is the case.

His skills will be farmmore appreciated in the NHS than they would be propping up a dead political party.