Monmouth MS Peter Fox, has called on the Welsh Government to take action following the recent report from the ministerial advisory group on NHS Wales performance and productivity.

In his question to the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Peter Fox highlighted the report made for difficult reading, noting the fact that much of the additional money being made available is going on pay rises and inflationary pressures.

Mr Fox explained this was understandable, but meant that very little money is getting to the front line where it is needed to change patient outcomes. In his question, Peter asked the Welsh Government for a clear timeline for improvement, with measurable targets and outcomes, and crucially asking when patients in Wales will see tangible benefits.

Peter Fox, Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, said: “There is no doubt at all that this report made for some concerning reading, but it came as no surprise to many of us.

“We must remember that behind every report, statistic and news article highlighting concern, is a patient not getting the care they deserve and need. This is certainly not the fault of our fantastic doctors, nurses and health professionals, who give their all day in and day out. This is due to systemic failure.

“It is good to see the Welsh Government agreeing to the 29 recommendations of the report, but when will this result in tangible benefits for our patients? They have been in power for 26 years, and it has taken them this long to realise our NHS was in trouble, leading to this external report.

“Welsh Labour must get to grips with this concerning situation, and ensure that our residents in Wales get the treatment and care they need.”