An MP criticises the high percentage of privately managed GP services in his region.

Sam Carling, the new Labour MP for North West Cambridgeshire, raised concerns in Parliament over the private provision of GP services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

In a debate on September 3, Carling revealed that 12.5 per cent of GP practices in the area operate under private-provider contracts - an alarming rate compared to the UK average of one per cent.

In his address to the House, Mr Carling said: “These contracts are held by private companies whose loyalties lie with their shareholders, and this stealth privatisation of our regional services is an appalling legacy of the last government’s 14 years of failure.”

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He further voiced his concern over the quality of patient care when handled by private contracts, and the increased financial burden on the taxpayer.

According to the MP, the continuity of care worsens due to a higher number of locum staff being employed.

Mr Carling acknowledged the immediate steps taken by the current Labour government, citing a 7.4 per cent increase in funding for GP practices for the year 2024/25.

He said: "We will fix this mess, but it is going to take time.”

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He also pointed out the stark shortage of GPs in Cambridgeshire, stating that the region's demand on GP services had notably increased since 2017, creating a pressing need for adequate staffing and infrastructure investments.

While emphasising the mammoth task ahead, he reiterated faith in the government by saying: “Addressing it will require a deftness, competency, and compassion we haven’t seen for fourteen years.

"But the Government has started well, and I have every confidence that the East, and those in my constituency of North West Cambridgeshire, will benefit from this Labour government’s approach and see a better experience for staff and patients alike.”