In response to the Prime Minister's NHS capital funding announcement, Professor Andrew Goddard, president of the Royal College of Physicians, said:
'We very much welcome the announcement of extra funding for upgrading hospitals, particularly as much of the capital investment is intended to help people in under-resourced areas who are struggling more than most to get the treatment they need.
'But while 20 more upgraded hospitals may seem a significant investment, it is unfortunately a drop in the ocean. Research by the Health Foundation estimates it would take an extra £3.5bn a year to bring capital spending on the health service in England up to the OECD average.
'Today’s announcement is certainly a small step in the right direction, but it’s a far cry from the great leap it will take to save our health service.'
