Shame on the Media

I have often wondered why the media have been giving the Government such an easy ride over the NHS Reforms.  Broadcasters, presenters and writers have all been far from challenging when interviewing Department of Health Ministers, and Lansley has been given a virtual free reign with his plans to dismantle the NHS as we know it.  But things seem to have taken a more sinister turn as the disasterous and shambolic Bill enters the final stages of its journey through the House of Lords.

I have no doubt in my mind that the current glut of negative stories about the poor quality of care at the moment is part of a co-ordinated campaign, and a cynical attempt to convince the public that the Government is doing the right thing.

It would appear the media, generally speaking, is taking the Government line, and therefore, just as responsible as Lansley and his lackies for the destruction of our much loved and cherished institution that the NHS is.

Personally, I  think it’s frightening that such a universally despised piece of legislation can make its’ way on to the statute book, something the vast amount of doctors, nurses, individually and collectively through their professional representative bodies have voiced their concern about, and yet their views have been totally ignored.  It makes me question just how much of a democracy we actually live in, though I’ve long since stopped believing in motherhood and apple pie.  Indeed the breathtaking arrogance, or is it stupidity of this Government is both frightening and difficult to comprehend.

Tony Russell