Devolution has worked, but Scotland still needs strong political leadership, says BMA

Main Category: Conferences
Article Date: 30 Jun 2004 - 7:00 PDT


In his final speech to the BMA's (British Medical Association's) annual conference in Wales today, outgoing chairman of Scottish Council, Dr John Garner said he believed devolution had worked in making a difference to the NHS in Scotland. But he also called for strong political leadership to meet future challenges.

He said: "I believe devolution has worked. Our health service is delivering for the people of Scotland and, although it won't happen overnight, I think we have a brighter future ahead.

Speaking of the challenges facing Scotland, Dr Garner added:

"We have a unique opportunity north of the Border to lead the way in legislating for smoke free public places? I urge our country's leaders not to falter and take decisive action to improve the public's health. It is their role to protect the public's health and one they must achieve.

"But there is much more to do. We need more doctors, more nurses and better facilities in which to treat our patients.

"There is growing public unrest as local services are downgraded, but we need to convince the public that in some cases, this is the right decision if patients are to continue to receive high quality care. Politicians have to make their decision based on the safety of the care their constituents receive rather than diving into the media spotlight to save a Victorian building."

Ends

Note to Editors:

The BMA's annual representatives meeting takes place in Llandudno, North Wales, from 28 June to 1 July 2004. Dr Garner will address conference at 10am today.

Dr Garner will stand down as chairman of the BMA's Scottish Council later this month.

Dr Garner's speech will be available at http://www.bma.org.uk tomorrow or from the press office. Email press.scotland@bma.org.uk or call 0131 247 3052.

For more information please contact:

Scottish Press Office
Tel: 0131 247 3050/3052 Mobile: 07979 510421
Fax: 0131 247 3051
Email: press.scotland@bma.org.uk

BMA Scottish Office
14 Queen Street
Edinburgh
EH2 1LL

Tel: (0131) 247 3000 Fax: (0131) 247 3001 email: info.edinburgh@bma.org.uk

Web: http://www.bma.org.uk/scotland

After 6.00 pm and weekends:
07979 510421

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