Bill Harvey: Babes in Toyland

‘The collective principle asserts that ... no society can legitimately call itself civilised if a sick person is denied medical aid because of lack of means.’  - Aneurin Bevan, In Place of Fear (1952). 

Like many of you, I have been learning a lot about the history of the NHS this week, as we are bombarded by 75th anniversary programmes, articles and podcasts.  

Sadly, the general theme seems to be how much longer can it last? It is interesting to note, however, that this is not a new theme. Indeed, after its launch on July 5, 1948, questions over funding were still hotly debated and, within just three years, a proposal was introduced for the first prescription charges; for dental care and spectacles.