Let Down By Labour: Average NHS Waiting Times Have Increased Since 1997

Average hospital waiting times have risen under Labour, figures show. NHS data reveals that in 1997-98 average waits stood at 41 days, but by last year had risen to 49 days.

Lib Dem health spokesman Norman Lamb said:

"These figures massively undermine Labour's claims to have made a substantial difference to NHS waiting times."

In Shepway, local residents have seen ward closures and cuts to the Folkestone Royal Victoria Hospital, where the main building is now to be sold off.

Liberal Democrat Leader on Shepway District Council, Lynne Beaumont, said:

"The cuts to our local hospital services over the past few years have been a disgrace, and even more incredible that it happened under a Labour Government who claimed that they would protect our NHS.

"These latest figures are just more proof that things really have not got better under Labour."