Former Chancellor and longest-serving Health Secretary, Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt, recently delivered an insightful lecture at El-Balad’s Mitre Lecture series. His presentation engaged students, faculty, and guests in an open dialogue, making it feel less like a formal address and more like a conversation.
Key Insights from Jeremy Hunt’s Mitre Lecture
Mr. Hunt began by reflecting on his unexpected appointment as Health Secretary in 2012. He candidly noted his limited experience in the healthcare sector at that time. He underscored the significant responsibility he felt while overseeing NHS England, which stands as Europe’s largest employer.
Challenges in the NHS
Throughout his lecture, Mr. Hunt acknowledged the pressing challenges faced by the NHS, particularly in light of the Mid Staffordshire public inquiry, where over 1,000 patients died due to inadequate care. He emphasized the urgent need for reform and the introduction of a clearer inspection system through the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This change, he believes, has led to greater transparency regarding care standards.
Universal Healthcare Values
Despite the difficulties ahead, Mr. Hunt expressed admiration for the principles underlying universal healthcare. He poignantly discussed the significant reductions in baby deaths during his time in office. “Making a real difference to people’s health and lives through politics is a privilege,” he stated.
Student Engagement and Queries
- Students eagerly posed various questions, demonstrating their keen interest in health policy and administration.
- Head Girl Abi inquired about school rating systems.
- Third Year student Hamish queried why Mr. Hunt did not “save the NHS” during his tenure.
- Upper Sixth student Jacob H challenged him on the leadership of Kemi Badenoch as Leader of the Opposition.
In response to Hamish’s question, Mr. Hunt emphasized that meaningful change takes time and can’t be achieved overnight. He shared his belief that freeing the NHS from a centralised system may be the way forward.
The Mitre Lecture Series
The Mitre Lectures, launched last year, aims to bring high-profile speakers to engage students with significant ideas every term. Recent speakers have included:
- Dr. Julia Ebner on radicalisation
- Sathnam Sanghera on imperialism
- Laura Bates on Everyday Sexism
- Sultana Tafadar KC on her experiences as the first hijab-wearing barrister appointed King’s Counsel
This session with Jeremy Hunt provided students at El-Balad a rare insight into the complexities of public service at the highest level, marking a significant moment in the Mitre Lecture series.
