NHS: Foundation Trusts

Baroness Cumberlege Excerpts

Tuesday 16th July 2013 Lords Chamber

[Earl Howe]

I am not aware of any on Sir Bruce Keogh’s list which were planning to merge but, if I may, I will write to my noble friend with further details if that needs clarifying.

[Baroness Cumberlege]

My Lords, my interests are declared in the Register of Lords’ Interests. Complicated organisations, such as hospitals of every sort, need outstanding, in-depth leadership from all quarters. Does my noble friend agree that clinicians should provide that leadership but that if there is an overwhelming culture of retribution there is no incentive for them to take on these very demanding roles? What incentives can the Government introduce to ensure that the most talented doctors and nurses are attracted to lead the NHS and take on these very high risk jobs?

[Earl Howe]

My noble friend makes a vital point. If we are to strive for excellence in the health service, leadership is essential. That is the reason why the NHS Leadership Academy has been established—to encourage not only managers but clinicians and nurses to take leadership roles in the health service for the very reasons that my noble friend states.