Andrew Lansley
MERSEYSIDE nurses stood together against Health Secretary Andrew Lansley as their union voted through a motion of no confidence in his NHS reforms.
Royal College of Nursing (RCN) members voted 99% in favour of the motion yesterday at the union congress in Liverpool.
Speaking after the vote at the BT Convention Centre, next to the Echo Arena, city nurses said it was no surprise.
There were 478 votes in favour, six against and 13 abstentions.
Community matron Claire Brewer said nurses had various concerns, adding: “I think the debate showed the strength of feeling of members coming against this NHS reform.
“There has been no test of any of the ideas to see if they will work. It is happening too quickly and it is hugely expensive.
“Members are worried services will be fragmented.”
Merseyside regional officer Colm Byrne said: “The RCN is a conservative with a small ‘c’ organisation really, so this vote just shows the strength of feeling.
