Public opinion polls in Britain consistently place the NHS high on the list of what people regard as “most important”–though so far in this general election the NHS has been conspicuous mainly by its absence as an issue. In fact, close examination would show more convergence than contrast between the parties' health policies. And while Labour is perceived by the public to have the best policies on health, the reality is that a Labour government will not radically change what is already in place.

Within sight of its 50th anniversary, the NHS is a durable survivor of Britain's postwar socialised services: state run, tax funded, and universally available–despite having been under Conservative rule for 35 of these years. Half that stewardship has …