who's who in health 2011

The 2010 election swept away many established Parliamentary health experts. It was also the catalyst for four important changes for the future: a new generation of MPs with experience of healthcare; a new Ministerial health team very familiar with health policy; a new Labour team largely unfamiliar with health; and a revitalised and ambitious Health Select Committee.

In recent years, Parliament has taken a back seat on health, not least because the political parties have agreed on more than they cared to admit. This will change as Parliament is asked to debate and approve the Coalition government’s radical and widely contested health reforms. It will be the most forcefully debated health bill for 12 years, since Labour abolished the Conservative’s previous attempt at GP commissioning.

Observers will be keen to assess the strengths of the new Labour team. With the Health Select Committee making an impact on commissioning and other areas, how will Stephen Dorrell and others position themselves in the debate? And which of the new MPs with medical, pharmaceutical and other health backgrounds will make their mark?

hanover's Who's who in health is a guide to the main Parliamentary players in health in 2011. Their views and votes will help shape the NHS for years to come./ View