10.11.10
Government plays down Unison survey
The government has attempted to play down the significance of a survey carried out by Unison into the effects of financial difficulties on trusts.
Whilst Unison - who recently took the government to court over its proposed NHS reforms - is concerned that financial pressures will damage healthcare, the government has promised to maintain funding in real terms.
A Department of Health spokesperson said: "The Coalition Government has made an historic commitment to increase NHS spending in real terms in every year of this Parliament.
"However the demand on the NHS is so great that in order to sustain and improve services, we need to make every penny count. The efficiency drive is about cutting waste and bureaucracy, and all savings made will be put back into patient care.
"Better care can cost less and all over the NHS, people are making changes to improve care and save money. Together, our efficiency drive and reform proposals will create a high quality health service that empowers staff and puts patients in control."
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