Medical colleges call on government to rethink health funding cuts

A number of organisations representing the medical sector have urged the government to reconsider its plans to cut funding to a number of key health services in England.

The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges has called on chancellor George Osborne to amend his decision to reduce the 2.8 billion public health budget in England by 200 million pounds from January.

Since local authorities control these funds, they are not included in the government's pledge to protect the NHS budget, yet the money is vital for paying for key services such as smoking cessation, obesity and sexual health clinics.

A total of 11 groups – including the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, Royal College of Nursing, NHS Confederation and Faculty of Public Health – have signed the letter calling for a rethink of the plans.

The letter said: "We urge you to consider very seriously the position we have outlined, to reverse these cuts in your forthcoming spending review and give a clear commitment that no further cuts will be made to public health budgets in future years."

It said that a change of stance would help relieve pressure on the NHS, tackle inequalities and improve people's health and wellbeing.