Context
Recent discussions with the Scottish Government regarding the impact of the Barnett formula on NHS funding, particularly concerns about access to GP services and long waiting times for hospital appointments and operations.
Question
There has been a noticeable increase in people contacting my office about accessing GP services, and long waiting times for hospital appointments and operations. On the Isle of Arran, many cannot get back-and-forth ferry trips on same day due to these issues. Given my experience as an ex-NHS manager, I see consequences of GP shortage in Scotland. With a recent successful recruitment campaign in England, should the Scottish Government utilise Barnett consequentials for robust workforce planning and GP recruitment?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Kirsty McNeill)
Thanks my hon. Friend for her service. With Labour's financial support, NHS waiting lists in England have fallen monthly due to our investment plan. In contrast, nearly one sixth of Scots are on waiting lists; John Swinney announced the fifth NHS recovery plan under SNP but it falls short; we need a new direction.
Not addressed: Did not address specific use of Barnett consequentials for GP recruitment and workforce planning in Scotland
How: Changed Subject To Labour'S Record
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