I cherish our National Health Service and the principles it holds itself to in that it is universal and free at the point of need. The Government has been repeatedly clear that our NHS will never be on the table in any trade agreements and I wholly support the Government in their stance.
Free trade drives economic growth. It raises incomes, creates jobs and lifts people out of poverty and now we are outside the European Union, this country will be able to strike new trade agreements with countries across the globe. But more trade should not compromise the high levels of quality and protection enjoyed in our country.
The UK will continue to ensure that the NHS is protected in all trade agreements it is a party to, whether transitioned from an EU context or as a result of new negotiations. Indeed, outside of the EU, rigorous protections for our NHS will be maintained and included in any future trade agreement which our country is a party.
I want to be absolutely clear, in particular with regards to a future trade agreement with the US. The NHS will be protected in any future agreement with the US. The price the NHS pays for drugs will not be on the table and nor will the services the NHS provides. I hope this is of reassurance to you and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
19th May 2020
