Party leaders unite to call for a new champion for Scots patients

Leaders of all the opposition parties at Holyrood have come together to back the appointment of a Scottish Patients’ Commissioner.

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard said he was “proud” to support the campaign, adding: “If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that patients and all those receiving medical treatment and care must be able to have their voice heard. By appointing a Patients’ Commissioner we can ensure the voices of patients are amplified and inform government decision-making.”

Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie said: “Patients need a new strong voice to stand up for them. The Patients Rights Act from 2012 isn’t delivering for them, as the legally-binding waiting- times guarantee is broken 200 times a day. People have to wait in pain for treatment and for justice. We need change.”

Scottish Conservatives leader Jackson Carlaw said: “Baroness Cumberlege’s impassioned plea for a Patients’ Commissioner is one politicians and the Scottish Government must not ignore. This will give so many people real confidence that an independent advocate will act on their behalf.”

Alison Johnstone, Scottish

Greens parliamentary coleader said: “A commissioner could provide much-needed scrutiny of the care and support for older people.”

Ma n y other senior politicians, including shadow health secretaries and health committee members, are also supporting the campaign.