The Mitre Lecture series recently featured a significant address from the former Chancellor and longest-serving Health Secretary, Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt. The event attracted numerous attendees, including academic scholars, students, staff, and distinguished guests. From the outset, Hunt fostered an engaging atmosphere by encouraging audience interaction, which transformed the occasion into a collaborative dialogue.
Jeremy Hunt’s Journey in Health Care
Hunt shared valuable insights from his tenure, recalling the initial shock of becoming Health Secretary in 2012 with limited healthcare experience. He discussed the immense responsibility he faced while overseeing NHS England, the largest employer in Europe. This role was further complicated by the aftermath of the Mid Staffordshire public inquiry, which revealed a tragic loss of over 1,000 patients due to inadequate care standards.
One of Hunt’s key achievements during his time in office was the implementation of a transparent inspection system through the Care Quality Commission (CQC). He expressed pride in fostering a culture of openness about care standards, stating, “We’re more open and honest about the standard of care now.”
Challenges Facing the NHS
During the lecture, Hunt addressed pressing issues affecting the NHS, including funding constraints, an ageing population, and rising pressures on public services. He acknowledged these substantial challenges but underscored the “amazing values” that support universal healthcare.
Reflecting on his time in office, he highlighted achievements such as the decrease in infant mortality rates. “Having the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s health and lives through politics is a real privilege,” he noted.
Student Engagement and Questions
- Head Girl Abi raised concerns about school rating systems.
- Other students queried NHS strategies for engaging younger generations.
- Hamish challenged Hunt, asking why he couldn’t “save the NHS” during his six years in office.
- Hunt responded, “Things take time… you can’t do it overnight.”
- Jacob H directly asked about Hunt’s opinion on Kemi Badenoch as Leader of the Opposition, to which Hunt diplomatically replied that the role is challenging and requires patience.
The discussion provided students with a unique perspective on public service’s complexities. Hunt’s willingness to engage openly was greatly appreciated, and gratitude was expressed toward the students for their insightful questions.
The Mitre Lectures Series
The Mitre Lectures, started last year, aim to provoke thought and discussion among students every half term. The series features prominent speakers discussing significant ideas. Previous events have included presentations by Dr. Julia Ebner on radicalisation, Sathnam Sanghera on imperialism, Laura Bates on Everyday Sexism, and Sultana Tafadar KC, who shared her experiences as the first hijab-wearing barrister appointed as King’s Counsel.
