£3m taxpayer cash spent on NHS 'frustration' consultants

Eye-watering expenditure

A staggering £3 million of taxpayer money has been used to fund consultants gathering feedback on patient frustrations with the NHS. This sum was allocated for Wes Streeting's "roadshows" where individuals are paid to share their views on the health service.

Controversial spending

The funds covered the setup of an online portal that quickly became the target of joke suggestions, such as requiring BMI tests for nurses. Critics have condemned the use of public money, especially as the government faces scrutiny for other costly initiatives.

Labour's response

Health Secretary Mr. Streeting initiated the public consultation to shape his "10-year plan" for NHS reform. Labour's commitment to reducing spending on external consultants contrasts sharply with this £2.96 million contract awarded to Thinks Insight and Strategy for organizing the feedback sessions.

Political backlash

Amidst criticism from Tory MP Joe Robertson, who labeled the initiative a "pricey PR exercise," concerns have been raised about prioritizing consultants over frontline staff and patients. Robertson emphasized the need for tangible improvements in healthcare delivery rather than costly public relations campaigns.