Health outcomes worst for the poorest

6.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 20th Sep 2006

On a visit to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Menzies Campbell highlighted the problems of growing health inequalities under Labour:

• Life expectancy for the richest is growing at a faster rate than the poorest

• Infant mortality is highest amongst the poorest

• Prevalence of mental health problems is highest amongst the poorest

Commenting on these facts, Sir Menzies said "It is appalling that despite record levels of economic growth the poorest are being left behind. I am determined that we tackle these issues head on and that the Liberal Democrats create an 'opportunity society'. I have asked Liz Barker to head up a working party to produce practical proposals for our conference in 2007."

Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary , Steve Webb MP, added "Vast sums of money have been spent on Labour's roundabout of reforms, but the disadvantaged have been left behind. Endless organisational overhaul does nothing to tackle the grotesque health inequalities which scar our society. There is no element of chance in this 'postcode lottery', the evidence is clear, it is the poor and disadvantaged who are losing out from the Government's rushed reforms of the NHS. Health professionals are forced to follow the latest government directive rather than concentrate on serving the needs of their communities. Despite nine years in power, Labour hasn't scratched the surface of the shameful record of health inequality created by the Tories."