…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, SNP deputy Westminster leader Mhairi Black elicited laughter in the House of Commons with a witty comment about the Deputy Prime Minister’s electoral prospects.
Responding to Oliver Dowden’s remarks about her decision to step down, Black stated that they entered Parliament together and would likely leave at the same time.
Mhairi Black Highlights Stances of Labour and Conservatives on Private Sector in NHS
Black raised questions about the positions of Labour and the Conservatives regarding the involvement of the private sector in the National Health Service (NHS).
Referring to the 75th anniversary of the NHS, she quoted two statements, one advocating greater use of the private sector and the other suggesting increased utilization of private healthcare for NHS patients.
Black challenged the Deputy Prime Minister to identify which quote belonged to the Prime Minister and which to the leader of the Opposition.
Response from Deputy Prime Minister on NHS and Brexit Impact
Oliver Dowden expressed his regret over Black’s decision to step down and acknowledged her contributions to politics.
Regarding the NHS, he emphasized his personal connection to the healthcare system and the government’s record funding for it.
When Brexit was raised, Black called on both parties to acknowledge the negative impact it has had on the NHS workforce, citing a decline in European nurses registering to work in the UK.
Dowden defended the government’s investment in the NHS workforce plan and highlighted the increased number of doctors and nurses since the Conservative Party came into power.
Mhairi Black’s Departure from Politics and Criticism of Westminster Environment
Black has announced that she will not seek re-election in the next general election, citing the “toxic” atmosphere in Westminster as her reason for leaving.
In an interview with The News Agents podcast, she described the parliamentary environment as one of the most unhealthy workplaces.