How does Sir Keir Starmer plan to cut NHS waiting lists?

Sir Keir Starmer aims to cut the number of patients waiting more than 18 weeks for NHS treatment by 450,000 within two years.

Amid his hopes of a New Year government reboot, the Prime Minister said by the end of 2026 two thirds of patients would be getting treatment in that timeframe.

Latest figures show 59 per cent of patients are currently having to wait longer than 18 weeks.

Labour’s Elective Reform Plan, published by NHS England, aims to deliver half a million more appointments a year through greater use of community diagnostic centres, 14 new surgical hubs in hospitals, “freeing up” around a million “non-essential” follow-up appointments by asking patients whether they want them, as well as seeing some people in group appointments.

So, how workable is the PM’s plan - and what more resources are needed?

The Standard podcast is joined by north London GP Sonia Adesara.

In part two, we’re off to Hollywood for the Golden Globes 2025, where there stars were out at the ceremony was dominated by first-time winners, including gongs for The Substance star Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana of Emilia Perez, I’m Still Here’s Fernanda Torres, and the stars of Shogun.

Post-awards analysis with The London Standard’s culture and lifestyle writer India Block.

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