Lansley sets out new clinically-led NHS plans

Health secretary Andrew Lansley has thanked NHS staff for their patience during the recent upheaval surrounding the future of the health service and reassured them that the new Health and Social Care Act will remain true to the core principles of the NHS.

Mr Lansley stressed the importance of clinically-led care in the future of the health service.

"The Health and Social Care Act will, in reality, empower NHS clinicians to determine the type of health services needed in their local area," explained the health secretary.

Writing in an open letter to NHS workers, Mr Lansley also argued that the new act is intended to empower the health service to make its own decisions without having to deal with politicians.

The bill was initially met with fierce criticism from many healthcare professionals, with the British Medical Association lobbying against it and warning it could hamper clinicians' attempts to improve their quality of service.