Foundation Hospitals

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 2:45 pm on 8 January 2003.

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Photo of Mr David Hinchliffe Mr David Hinchliffe Labour, Wakefield 2:45, 8 January 2003

It is a pleasure to follow Mr. Dorrell, who always makes an interesting speech. I did not agree with much of what he said, but he is one of the declining number of Tory Members who believe in the basic principles of the NHS. His time in the Department showed his concern for the health service, and I appreciate that. I recall many happy hours arguing with him about the internal market.

This is an Opposition day debate, but it is worth remarking on the fact that six Conservative Back Benchers are present and three of them are possibly here because they wish to make leadership bids. I wonder what Tory Members do with their time. It is their debate, so I would have expected far more interest in it from them.