In a recent engaging session during the Mitre Lecture series, former Chancellor and the longest-serving Health Secretary, the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt, captivated an audience composed of academic scholars, students, staff, and guests. Right from his entrance, Hunt fostered a dialogue-oriented environment, inviting audience questions and transforming the session into what felt like an open conversation rather than a formal address.
Hunt shared his personal journey, recalling the “shock” he felt when he became Health Secretary in 2012, despite having what he described as “limited experience in health.” He spoke candidly about the immense responsibility he carried while leading NHS England, noted as the largest employer in Europe, especially in the wake of the Mid Staffordshire public inquiry, where over 1,000 patients lost their lives due to substandard care. He highlighted that introducing a more transparent inspection system through the Care Quality Commission (CQC) stands as one of his proudest achievements. “We’re more open and honest about the standard of care now,” he reassured students.
The discussion delved into significant issues plaguing the NHS, such as funding, an ageing population, and the increasing pressures faced by public services. While acknowledging these formidable challenges, Hunt emphasized the “amazing values” that underpin universal healthcare. He poignantly reflected on the progress made in reducing baby deaths during his time, stating, “Having the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s health and lives through politics is a real privilege.”
Students eagerly engaged with Hunt, posing various questions. Head Girl Abi initiated a conversation about school rating systems, while others inquired about NHS strategies to attract younger generations, navigations through complex reforms, and accountability measures. One particularly inquisitive student, Hamish, questioned why Hunt did not manage to “save the NHS” during his six-year tenure. With a smile, Hunt replied, “Things take time… you can’t do it overnight. Each Health Secretary thinks they’ll save the NHS. The real answer I believe now is to free it from a centralised system.”
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Another thought-provoking moment arose when Upper Sixth student Jacob H directly asked, “You’ve been talking about honesty; do you honestly believe Kemi Badenoch is the best Leader of the Opposition?” Hunt diplomatically responded, “It’s a very difficult job… you need to give people time.”
This thoughtful and expansive discussion provided students with a rare glimpse into the intricacies and realities of public service at an elevated level. Acknowledgment was given to Hunt for his time and openness, along with gratitude extended to the students for their well-researched questions.
The Mitre Lectures, launched last year, are a dynamic series designed to engage students with significant ideas every half term, featuring high-profile speakers. Recent lectures have included talks from 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.
