21/02/2012

NHS Reform Backlash Sees Conservative's Lead Shrink

A backlash against David Cameron's proposed NHS reforms has lead to a drop in voter support of 4% for the Conservative Party, with Labour seeing a 2% increase.

In a survey by the ICM, a 52% majority of respondents say the bill should be dropped with only 33% wanting the plan to go ahead.

Of the respondents only people in the 18 to 24 age group voted to see through the plans, with a majority of 46% to 39%. Opposition is strongest amongst the over 65's with 56% against and 29% in favour.

As Cameron hosted an NHS summit, which has excluded the professional bodies most opposed to his reforms, voters are agreeing with the royal medical colleges calling for the bill to be dropped.

In comparison when ICM asked voters in 2005 about then prime minister Tony Blair's proposed reforms opinion was divided over private involvement in the NHS with 48% in favour and 49% against.

Cameron, who once said his priorities could be summed up in the letters 'NHS', has so far failed to convince the public about his reforms and there are signs this is leading to a downturn in the fortunes of the Conservative party.

ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 1,013 adults aged 18+ by telephone on 17-19 February 2012. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.


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