SNP ‘hypocrites’ go private

THOUSANDS of NHS patients are to be treated by private firms in a bid to end Scotland’s waiting times crisis.

The health service is set to pay for a range of procedures – from fitting children’s grommets and removing tonsils to hip and knee replacements.

This is despite vows by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that the NHS should be free of private sector involvement.

Scottish Tory health spokesman Miles Briggs said: ‘This highlights the SNP’s hypocrisy.

‘[Health Secretary] Jeane Freeman seems to be going to the private sector with her begging bowl to ask them to help address the SNP mess.’

Scottish Labour health spokesman Monica Lennon said: ‘Big things were expected from Jeane Freeman – it’ll be disappointing if her plans to rescue the NHS are dependent on boosting the profits of private providers.’

On February 8, private firms met senior NHS procurement staff in Larkhall, Lanarkshire.

The NHS is understood to be seeking help in areas including dermatology, ophthalmology, neurology and orthopaedics.

NHS National Services Scotland said: ‘The value of contracts is unknown until responses and capacity are matched with requirements.’

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘This new single contract will provide additional capacity while we build up capacity in the NHS.’