In advance of the Health and Care Bill’s second reading, this statement sets out the views shared by the NHS Confederation, NHS Providers and the Local Government Association – the organisations that represent the health sector and local government in England – on the proposed reforms.

As national membership bodies of the NHS and local government, we stand ready to work with the government to co-produce regulations and guidance and ensure the positive intentions of the bill are realised. We do, however, have some shared areas of concern and we would urge the government to work with us to address these as the legislation progresses through parliament.

1. Significantly increased powers for the secretary of state
2. Maintaining clear lines of accountability
3. A greater focus on the health and care workforce
4. Social care