Ex-NHS policy chief Alasdair Liddell dies aged 63
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Respected health expert and former NHS policy chief Alasdair Liddell has died.
Mr Liddell, who was 63, suffered an aneurysm while visiting friends in Kintyre, Scotland, on New Year's Eve, his son Rob said today.
As the Department of Health's director of planning for six years from 1994, he saw through significant changes - including the launch of NHS Direct.
Before transferring to Whitehall, he was chief executive in a series of hospitals and health authorities.
Among his innovations was the "Rubber Windmill" series of market simulation exercises to test the NHS internal market system.
Awarded the CBE in 1997 for services to the NHS, he left the DoH in 2000 amid reported policy differences with ministers and went on to work for health charities including the King's Fund.
He was married to former BBC director of audio and music Dame Jenny Abramsky, who now chairs the Heritage Lottery Fund, and leaves two children.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments