Rob Webster, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, said:“This report from the NAO consolidates what we already know – that the financial position in the NHS is currently under incredible stress as NHS leaders and staff work tirelessly to maintain good care in the face of increasing demand. 

Mr Webster continued: “What we now need to do is address this in the short term and the medium term. The NHS has reached a point where finances could collapse quickly. We would welcome the Government addressing the pressures facing the NHS it its Autumn Statement. This would provide breathing space to prepare for the significant service changes required in the medium term. This will require tough political choices now and in the next electoral cycle – which is why we asked politicians in the 2015 Challenge Manifesto to support a care system fit for all patients.

This will need certainty, and we welcome the NAO calls for longer term funding and planning. A fixed term Parliament could allow for five-year settlements, and we are calling for a 10-year commitment on funding to enable commissioners and providers to plan more effectively for future health needs.”