In the first of two special episodes, we speak to Jeremy Hunt about the state of the NHS and his reaction to the government’s 10-Year Health Plan. Jeremy was Secretary of State for Health and Social Care between 2012 and 2018, in the Cameron and May governments, making him the longest serving health secretary to date. He later served as foreign secretary (2018–2019) and Chancellor of the Exchequer (2022–2024).

In conversation with our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon, Jeremy reflects on his time as health secretary and whether he believes the new plan presents a coherent blueprint for reform. Does the plan strike a positive balance between top-down targets and decentralisation? Will the decision to scrap NHS England and cut the numbers of ICBs help or hinder delivery? And what is the future role of regulation in improving patient safety and care quality?

The Health Foundation (2020). Glaziers and window breakers. Former health secretaries in their own words.

Nuffield Trust (2025). Exploring earnings of NHS doctors in England.  

The Health Foundation (2025). Taking a chainsaw to NHS England is not the sign of a healthy state.

HSJ (2025). Cuts to ICBs and NHSE slammed by ex-health secretary. 

HSJ (2025). Patient Safety Watch: Dash Review opens a crucial door. 

BMJ (2025). Government’s 10 year plan for the NHS in England.