The Rt Hon Andrew Lansley, MP
Secretary of State for Health
Richmond House
79, Whitehall
SW1A 2NS

6 December 2010

Dear Andrew,

Nurses' Pay

I am writing to you after receiving representations from a number of nurses in my constituency. These nurses are concerned about pay and job security and I share their concerns.

Nurses are already among the lowest paid of all public servants, so are understandably worried by reports of plans to freeze the incremental pay increases that staff receive each year, if they perform to the appropriate level, as well as nurses' basic pay. Any holding back of incremental pay would only make the disparities they suffer even greater. Over recent years nurses have taken on more responsibility for medical procedures, such as the cannulation of patients and the initial management of acute crises such as heart attacks. I think that their contribution to patient care is reflected not only in their own work, but also in their capacity to allow doctors to use their time as effectively as possible. Nurses undergo extensive continuous training in order to deliver this level of service. I believe that incremental pay is an important part of recognising and supporting their progression and any reduction could put patient care at risk. I ask you to reassure my constituents that there will be no cut backs on incremental pay for nurses.

There are also widespread concerns about cuts being made in the NHS. Despite assertions that the Health budget is protected, the Royal College of Nursing has found that almost 27,000 posts are already earmarked for cuts across the UK. These reports have come directly from frontline staff. I am writing to you to ensure that you are aware of this situation, and that the Royal College of Nursing will play a full role in all future discussions about the NHS. I would also like you to take immediate steps to make good on your promise that frontline health services will not be subjected to public spending cuts.

I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,

Caroline Lucas, MP, Brighton Pavilion

Read the Department of Health's reply