May I begin by expressing my warm thanks to the NHS Confederation for arranging this series of speeches on the future of our public services and for inviting me to contribute? At the start of a Parliament, it is very good to take an opportunity to think about the direction and the objectives of reform and of policy, somewhat free of the partisan demands of electioneering. The NHS Confederation continues to be, under Gill’s leadership, a strong advocate of reform and of high standards of leadership and management in the NHS. I have greatly valued our discussions over the last two years and even if we cross swords occasionally, I know we have shared aims in securing the opportunity for strong leadership and quality management to deliver high standards of healthcare in our NHS.

Thank you very much, Mr. Deputy Speaker, for the opportunity to make my maiden speech. It is a daunting prospect, not least because I follow the exemplary and entertaining speeches of the hon. Members for Aberdeen, South (Miss Begg) and for Cumbernauld and Kilsyth (Ms McKenna).