Diane Abbott MP, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary, speaking in response to the Federation of Specialist Hospital’s letter in today’s Times, said:

“This letter suggests the NHS is already feeling the impact of the vote to leave the European Union and the Tory Government’s complete lack of preparation for the outcome.

"The specialist hospitals are right to raise this. The NHS relies heavily on its dedicated staff and draws in professionals from all over the world including the EU. The Government should confirm that EU citizens who have made Britain their home will be allowed to stay.”