And now the truth is emerging

Saw this being discussed on a news commentary programme last night, right before bed: A&E U-turn ‘puts cancer care at risk’.

Background: before the elections in May, the Scottish Executive had plans to close two A&E departments. The SNP promised to reverse those plans if they came to power, and they did, so they have.

Now it emerges (why it wasn’t bleeding obvious is a mystery) that in reversing the decision, money that had been made available for other medical services (cancer care and local casualty centres, i.e. triage) is now in doubt.

Nicola Sturgeon’s response? No, as HEALTH SECRETARY I make the FINAL DECISIONS and I say that all the services should be available. You guys sort how how the fuck you’re going to print the money needed. Because I say so, I’M THE HEALTH SECRETARY.

• 3 Aug 2007