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SNP fails to cut NHS waiting lists, says Conservative.

4/29/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, Scottish Conservative health spokesperson, said the SNP has failed to cut NHS waiting lists after two decades.
He cited figures showing waiting lists remain high, with thousands still facing year-long waits despite First Minister John Swinney’s promise to end them by March.
Swinney told BBC that waiting times have fallen, operations rose and a record number of hip and knee surgeries were performed last year.

History

Historical Context

In 2004 the UK launched the NHS Waiting Times Guarantee, setting an 18-week maximum. The Department of Health reported 90 % compliance in 2007, yet long waits continued—299,478 patients were over 52 weeks by February 2022. Now Scottish Conservative health spokesman Dr. Sandesh Gulhane says NHS Scotland still lists more than 400,000 patients facing year-long waits despite First Minister John Swinney’s pledge.

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Story summary

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, Scottish Conservative health spokesperson, said the SNP has failed to cut NHS waiting lists after two decades.
He cited figures showing waiting lists remain high, with thousands still facing year-long waits despite First Minister John Swinney’s promise to end them by March.
Swinney told BBC that waiting times have fallen, operations rose and a record number of hip and knee surgeries were performed last year.

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