Responding to the Liberal Democrat's £1 billion a year pledge to restore the local Public Health Grant, Dr Penelope Toff, BMA public health medicine committee chair, said: 

"There have been cuts of 28% to the Public Health grant between 2015/16 and 2023/24 and this has impacted drastically on a range of local public health services; from smoking cessation and helping people to reduce drug and alcohol use, to providing health visitors and helping children and adults to eat healthily and exercise. All this work is a vital aspect of reducing health inequalities.

“The BMA has long been calling for restoration of the Public Health grant to local authorities to at least 2015 levels on a real terms per person basis – equating to £1.2 billion - to adequately resource these and other crucial public health services. Investment in this key prevention work has a powerful impact on reducing demand for healthcare services and all the evidence shows that a healthier population also means a healthier economy. 

"Restoring the local Public Health grant is not only the right thing to do but makes good economic sense. We urge all political parties to show their recognition of prevention as an essential component of a healthy and effective society, through making a clear commitment to reversing these damaging cuts and investing in improving the health of the population.”

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.