Tory MP Danny Kruger has ignited a political firestorm after publicly defending a two-tier healthcare system for Britain, arguing it delivers superior outcomes despite inherent inequalities.
The son of celebrity chef and Bake Off judge Prue Leith made the controversial remarks during a parliamentary debate, stating bluntly that a system with private and public options is "better than one."
A Heated Clash in the Commons
The controversy erupted during a session where Labour's shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, challenged the government on NHS waiting lists. Streeting accused the Conservatives of deliberately running down the health service to push people towards private care.
In his defence, Kruger, the MP for Devizes, did not deny the charge but instead justified the outcome. "He is right that we are running a two-tier system," Kruger conceded, before adding his explosive justification: "and it's better than one."
Backlash and Accusations of Elitism
The comments were met with immediate fury from opposition MPs and health advocates. Critics were quick to label the statement as a shocking admission of the Tory party's intent to create an American-style system where wealth dictates healthcare quality.
Many have pointed to Kruger's privileged background—his mother is a renowned food writer and TV personality—as evidence of a disconnect from the realities faced by millions relying solely on the NHS. The remark is seen as a watershed moment, revealing a stark ideological divide on the future of public healthcare in the UK.
The Political Fallout
The incident has placed the Conservative Party in a difficult position, forcing a conversation about its commitment to a universal healthcare model. Kruger's unapologetic stance is expected to become a key attack line for Labour in the lead-up to the next general election, framing the Tories as the party of inequality.
As the debate rages online and in the media, Kruger's comments have cemented his reputation as a standard-bearer for the party's right wing, unafraid of cour controversy with hardline ideological positions.
