Last night at the Lords Labour’s shadow health secretary John Healey explained to journalists why he was leaving his post.
When I met him a year ago at a similar meet-and-greet function he was new in post and said he had much to learn about the health brief. Whether he ever quite maximised his position is a point for debate but the most important thing to remember is that this is now a crucial time for the NHS. Read more »
The dreary month of January has been enlivened considerably by some proper snow and some political intrigue, taking our minds off our diets and our debts.
On the snow front, we’ve heard heroic tales of health professionals going above and beyond the call of duty at a time when all too many people opt to ‘work from home’ at the mere hint of a snowflake. (Our news editor is currently ‘stranded’ in Cuba – in a five-star hotel – or at least that’s the story he’s sticking to.)
Gordon Brown has ‘the worst bloody smile in the world’. So says John Prescott, and when Prezza takes the mickey out of your image, I think you’re probably done for.
Particularly when the statement rings true. Whether Mr Brown is greeting the wives of his foreign counterparts; ‘enjoying’ a ride in a golf buggy; accepting the Olympic torch; or stealing a quick 40 winks; he must be the least photogenic man in the world. His obvious discomfort is gold to the paparazzi and fuel for the Great British Public’s collective sarcasm.
What links Jonathan Ross, President Obama and our very own health secretary, Alan Johnson?
No, it’s nothing to do with Andrew Sachs’ granddaughter.
The answer is ‘Twitter’ the latest communication tool to be adopted by those in the know, including a plethora of celebrities, from the leader of the free world to…a disgraced TV host with a speech impediment.
Everyone loves a health minister don’t they?
If it’s not Ben Bradshaw frolicking with Nancy Dell’Olio, there can usually be much comedy/tragedy to be found within the walls of DoH Whitehall HQ Richmond House.
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