Editorial: Sir David Nicholson should fall on his sword
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.With new revelations about contaminated food and Michael Gove's U-turn on GCSEs, the defining event of this week – the report by Robert Francis QC on the scandalous failings at Mid Staffordshire NHS Trust – risks slipping from the public eye. That must not happen. The conclusions must be heeded and the recommendations acted upon. David Cameron's announcement of a new chief inspector of the NHS and the investigations of five more hospital trusts can be only a start.
Mr Francis's decision not to hold individuals to account was of a piece with his central finding that a whole culture was to blame. That does not mean, however, that individuals – from top to bottom of the NHS – are not culpable. Rather, it places the onus on them to recognise that, by remaining in their posts, they will be seen – rightly or wrongly – as a block on change. Starting with Sir David Nicholson, now chief executive of the NHS, who was a regional official with oversight of Staffordshire in 2005.
Mr Cameron's expressions of confidence notwithstanding, nothing would demonstrate Sir David's loyalty to the NHS more, in present circumstances, than his departure. His role at Mid Staffs and subsequent promotion send quite the wrong message about what it takes to lead the NHS. He should draw the appropriate conclusion.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments