North Devon's MP responds to the budget

In a statement released following the Budget announcement today by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, local Liberal Democrat MP for North Devon, Ian Roome, declared: “I will hold the government’s feet to the fire” on NHS funding for North Devon District Hospital (NDDH).

Mr Roome emphasised that the extra funding for the NHS must result in tangible improvements for local residents, particularly through increased access to GP and NHS dentist appointments. 

He pledged to ensure that the government fulfils its promises regarding NHS funding.

“While we welcome the extra NHS funding set out today, it’s disappointing not to see a more concrete plan confirmed for North Devon District Hospital,” Mr Roome stated. 

He highlighted the urgent need to modernise the hospital’s ageing infrastructure, which he described as "desperately needed." 

The MP criticised the Conservative government for what he termed an over-promising and under-delivering approach, leaving both patients and staff at risk in outdated facilities.

Mr Roome cautioned that if NDDH fails, it could have severe consequences for the entire Devon healthcare system.

“If the NDDH is left to fail, this would have a crushing impact on the entire Devon healthcare system. Both the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital and Derriford Hospital already face serious pressure on service delivery, and confronting NDDH’s patient load would be catastrophic,” he added.

Despite welcoming the Chancellor's commitment of over £22 billion in additional annual health operating budget and more than £3 billion for capital spending, Mr Roome emphasised the necessity of a firm commitment specifically for NDDH.

“I will make this abundantly clear to the Government,” he said.

In his critique of the Budget, Mr Roome expressed disappointment over cuts to the winter fuel allowance, which he believes will adversely affect vulnerable pensioners in the community. 

He also raised concerns about the government’s increase to Employer’s National Insurance and the potential implications for family farms in rural areas.

“To support our rural community, the government should be raising the money we need by reversing tax cuts for the big banks and asking the social media giants to pay a bit more,” Mr Roome stated, advocating for a fairer approach to taxation.