Dan Poulter, the former U.K. health minister, has made a shocking decision to leave the Tory party and join the liberal Labour Party due to his deep concerns about the Conservative Party’s lack of focus on the healthcare system. Poulter, who still practices medicine, believes that the NHS is no longer a priority for the Tories, resulting in increased strain on frontline workers and declining patient care.
In an interview with Sky News, Poulter stated that he believes the only solution is to elect a Labour government and called on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to hold general elections as soon as possible. His endorsement of Labour party leader Keir Starmer is seen as a significant blow to Sunak, as he is the second member to defect under his leadership. Earlier this year, former Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson also left the party for the right-wing populist Reform party.
Poulter’s move could have far-reaching implications for both the upcoming elections and future government policies related to healthcare. The shift in support from a former health minister highlights growing concerns within the Conservative Party about their approach to healthcare and raises questions about their commitment to improving patient care and funding for the NHS.