In this podcast episode, former Health Department Special Adviser, Ed Jones, joins Isabel Hardman - Assistant Editor of The Spectator and author of Fighting for Life - The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future - along with Calum and Kirsty to discuss the current state of the NHS under the Labour government, focusing on Wes Streeting's recent announcements regarding reforms. They explore the implications of league tables, accountability, and the morale of NHS staff, while also considering the historical context of NHS reforms. The conversation delves into the role of consumer choice in healthcare, the importance of political capital, and the urgent need for social care reform. Ultimately, they reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing the NHS as it navigates a complex landscape of expectations and demands. Isabel critiques the lack of coherent reform despite significant funding and highlights the historical challenges the NHS has faced since its inception in 1948. The discussion also delves into the future of the NHS, emphasising the need for social care reform and addressing the mixed healthcare landscape that has emerged. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.