Long NHS delays leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths, inquiry finds

Detailed analysis warns Keir Starmer it will take longer than five years to get waiting times back on track

Long delays for hospital, GP and mental health services are leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths and have ruptured the social contract between the NHS and the people", an inquiry has concluded.

The findings of the study by Lord Ara Darzi, commissioned by Labour when it came to power, will be cited by the prime minister, Keir Starmer, who will on Thursday warn that the NHS has to reform or die".