RCN passes no-confidence vote in Andrew Lansley

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has passed a motion of no confidence in Andrew Lansley and his ability to manage the reforms of the NHS being put into place by the coalition government.

In a report from its RCN Congress and Exhibition 2011, the organisation reveals that an emergency resolution on the issue saw members take to the stage to have their say regarding the health secretary's capabilities.

Once their views had been aired, those in attendance voted on a no-confidence motion, which was passed with a 98.76 per cent share of members.

A total of 478 people supported the motion, with six voting against it and 13 choosing to abstain.

The RCN says: "Speakers voiced concerns for particular specialties, including mental health, older people and the care of the homeless and those with long-term conditions."

As standard, up to four emergency agenda items can be submitted ahead of and even during the RCN conference, although this figure can also increase if necessary.