UNISON, the UK’s largest union, today called on the government to withdraw an advertisement for the appointment of the Independent Regulator for NHS Foundation Trusts.
In a letter to the Secretary of State for Health, Alan Milburn, UNISON expressed deep concern at the placing of the ad in newspapers before parliamentary consideration of the issue had concluded.
UNISON National Secretary for Health, Karen Jennings said:
“The decision to advertise the post at this stage shows a clear disregard for the parliamentary process. The Bill establishing the Independent Regulator was heavily opposed at second reading and is still in committee stage.
“This action, together with the announcement of the 29 successful preliminary applicants for foundation trusts status, confirm the government’s intention to steamroll this initiative through.
“A true democratic process would have involved an open and inclusive consultation. The ad should be withdrawn until the parliamentary process has been completed.”
According to the ad, the Independent Regulator will be responsible for authorising, monitoring and regulating NHS Foundation Trusts.