Bevan: Creator of the NHS

Aneurin Nye Bevan was responsible for creating the National Health Service after the war, which was a significant reform of the post-war Labour government. He believed the war was an opportunity to create a new society and wanted the NHS to be freely available to all, but resigned in 1951 over the introduction of charges for prescriptions and glasses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Haus Publishing

The establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) stands as one of the most significant and far-reaching reforms implemented by the post-war Labour government. The driving force behind this transformative initiative was Aneurin Nye Bevan, a Welsh miner's son who rose to prominence as a local trade union leader at the age of nineteen and was elected as a Labour Member of Parliament (MP) in 1929. Bevan held a firm belief that the aftermath of the war presented an opportunity for Britain to embark on a journey of societal transformation. Throughout the conflict, he steadfastly maintained this perspective, viewing the war as a catalyst for creating a new and improved society.

When the war finally concluded in 1945, Bevan's Labour Party secured a resounding victory, granting him the opportunity to bring his vision to fruition. Renowned for his powerful oratory skills, Bevan passionately advocated for the establishment of a free and universal National Health Service (NHS). However, his unwavering commitment to this vision clashed with the government's financial constraints, leading to his resignation in 1951. The introduction of charges for prescriptions and glasses, which were seen as a means to alleviate the financial burden on the NHS, proved to be a contentious issue that ultimately led to Bevan's departure from the government.

In the present day, as the NHS continues to occupy an increasingly significant portion of the national income, this revised edition of Bevan's legacy takes on heightened significance. The ongoing debate surrounding the future of the health service he created serves as a testament to the enduring impact and legacy of his visionary leadership. As the nation grapples with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, Bevan's vision of a universal and accessible healthcare system remains a guiding light, inspiring generations to come.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913368838
Edition number: Revised ed.