United Kingdom

When John Major and his team sought re-election this year, they claimed to have created the most vigorous economy in Europe. First under Margaret Thatcher then under Major, successive Conservative administrations had adopted a policy of “fiscal rectitude” in which the number-one enemy was public expenditure. Taxes were lowered; public services were curtailed; market forces ruled; the gap between rich and poor widened. On May 1 the electorate showed its weariness with this monocular approach and the Conservatives were ejected by a huge majority. So, what should we now expect from “New Labour” on the health and social and educational scene? Those who look for instant resuscitation of the ailing National Health Service will be disappointed. But the incoming government has shown a reforming spirit and, in these early days gloom has given place to hope. In this profile of medicine and research in the UK, The Lancetʹs guide was Prof Patrick Vallance.