Today (13 March 2025) The Independent revealed that NHS waiting lists have fallen for the fifth month in a row.

It follows news that the Government met its pledge to deliver two million extra NHS appointments, seven months early.

This success has been driven by increased investment, the introduction of evening and weekend appointments, and decisive action to end industrial action. Luke Myer MP welcomed the data as an “important step”, but recognised “there is a hell of lot more to do.”

Earlier today, the Prime Minister announced the next stage of major reforms to the NHS – scrapping the arms-length body NHS England, to reduce bureaucracy and bring management back into democratic control.

Locally, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has been making significant strides, including an innovative change in physiotherapy services that reduced waiting lists by more than half. Other initiatives, such as AI-powered lung cancer diagnosis and the upcoming diagnostic centre in the Tees Valley, are further improving patient care and access to treatment.

This evening, Luke Myer MP spoke to ITV Tyne Tees about the Government’s mission to make the NHS fit for the future again:

Luke Myer MP said:

“The NHS has been going through its worst crisis in its history – and we’re determined to make sure it’s fit for the future again. We promised to deliver two million more NHS appointments in a year as the first step to reducing the shocking backlog. We’ve met that target, seven months early. This follows the ending of strikes and a £23 billion investment in our NHS.

“There’s still a long way to go, but the tide is turning. This milestone is a beacon of hope for the millions who have been waiting in pain for essential treatment. It is a testament to the hard work of NHS staff and the decisive actions taken by this Labour Government.”