Reform UK Would Dismantle NHS with Insurance Model, Warns DWP Secretary
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has issued a stark warning that a Reform UK government would dismantle the National Health Service, replacing it with an insurance-based model. Speaking ahead of the Holyrood election in May, McFadden claimed the party offers "no answers" for Scotland and poses a direct threat to the NHS's founding principles.
Claims of NHS Dismantling
McFadden asserted that under Scottish leader Malcolm Offord, Reform UK's only clear policy is to scrap the NHS model that has served Scotland and the UK for decades. He emphasised Labour's commitment as the party that founded the NHS, vowing to fight any attempts to introduce an insurance system. The DWP Secretary made these remarks during an interview with the Press Association in Glasgow, where he expressed optimism about Labour's election prospects despite some polls showing Reform UK pushing Labour into third place.
Support for Anas Sarwar
When questioned about tensions within Labour following Scottish leader Anas Sarwar's previous calls for Sir Keir Starmer to resign, McFadden firmly backed Sarwar. He described the Scottish Labour MSP as a "breath of fresh air" and confirmed they speak regularly. McFadden stated he wants Sarwar to become First Minister after the election, highlighting a clear choice for voters between continuity with the current government or change through Scottish Labour.
Election Context and Polling
With the Holyrood election scheduled for May 7, McFadden urged Scots to support Labour to prevent what he characterised as Reform UK's destructive agenda. He acknowledged some surveys suggest Reform UK has gained ground but maintained that voters will ultimately decide the outcome. The DWP Secretary stressed that Labour respects the electorate's judgment and looks forward to challenging those who would dismantle the NHS.
McFadden concluded by reiterating his full support for Sarwar and the Scottish Labour Party in the campaign, dismissing any lingering anger over past internal disagreements. Reform UK Scotland has been approached for comment on these allegations.
