Letters

Published: 21/02/2002, Volume II2, No. 5792 Page 24

I was disappointed to read the headline on your news focus about Gill Morgan, my successor at the helm of the NHS Confederation ('Breakfast with frost?', 7 February). You have a misguided notion of effective influence if you think that 'slagging off Milburn on the To d a y programme' is the best way to do business with any government. On the contrary, should Gill be tempted to engage in such behaviour she will find herself shouting at a closed door.

Governments only really listen to powerful pressure groups when they have something constructive to say. The world of healthcare is full of those who stand on the sidelines and criticise. They are usually ignored. It has few who provide practical, workable solutions.

The confederation has built such a reputation.

Arguments with government are never won via heated exchanges over the airwaves.

However, ministers do take extra care with those organisations prepared, in the right circumstances and with measured tone, to tell the public a coherent story based on sound evidence and the experience of those providing care to patients.

I have no doubt that Gill will wish to continue this tradition at the confederation.

Stephen Thornton Chief executive The PPP Foundation London W1