Labour's plan to stop small boat gangs with a new deal with the EU.
Concerns about the UK government's target to reduce waiting times in hospitals, especially due to ongoing strikes.
Deep dives
Rishi Sunak acknowledges challenge in reducing waiting lists
Rishi Sunak has acknowledged the challenge in meeting the government's pledge to reduce waiting lists in England by the next election. The waiting list for planned operations and appointments currently stands at 7.68 million. Sunak attributed part of the rise in waiting lists to the ongoing industrial action by doctors, but healthcare leaders argue that waiting lists were already increasing prior to the strikes. There is concern among healthcare leaders about the impact the strikes will have going into winter, as cancellations could result in worsening conditions for patients.
£200 million announced for NHS to prepare for winter
The UK government has announced an additional £200 million in funding for the National Health Service (NHS) to support preparations for the winter season. £40 million of this funding will be allocated to social care. The money will be used for staffing initiatives, minor reconfigurations of A&E departments, and other measures aimed at improving patient flow and capacity during the challenging winter months. NHS leaders have expressed concerns about the ongoing impact of the strikes on the NHS, noting that it could exacerbate the challenges faced during the winter season.
Proposed law for automatic second opinions in care settings
The mother of Martha, who died from sepsis, has been campaigning for a law that would allow automatic second opinions in care settings if family members feel the treatment provided is incorrect. Health Secretary Steve Barclay suggested that the government is considering introducing such a law, but the details and implementation are yet to be determined. The aim is to improve confidence in the healthcare system and ensure that patients and their families have access to the best possible advice and care. Healthcare leaders stress the importance of managing the additional demand and resource requirements to accommodate this new law effectively.
Age becomes a key focus in election campaigns
Age has become a significant topic in election campaigns, with Joe Biden and Donald Trump facing questions about their age and ability to serve as political leaders. The issue of age is seen as more challenging for Biden, who is older than Trump. However, it is argued that age is less of a problem for Trump due to various factors. This has sparked discussions around the impact of age on US politics and the perceptions of voters. The topic of age is expected to play a role in the upcoming US election.
Sir Keir Starmer seeks new deal with EU to stop smugglers.
Labour’s Emily Thornberry joins Adam and Chris to take us through what their plan is.
And, the government’s target to reduce the hospital waiting list in England is in doubt according to the prime minister. He was speaking to health editor Hugh Pym, who joins us, as does Saffron Cordery from NHS Providers.
00:00 Labour’s plan to stop small boat gangs
20:20 PM admits target to cut waiting times in doubt
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Today's Newscast was hosted by Adam Fleming. It was made by Chris Gray with Stephanie Mitcalf and Josh Jenkins. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The senior news editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Sam Bonham.
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