The BMA has recommended an independent board of governors to run the NHS in England, to put an end to what its chairman describes as the constant “political dabbling” in the day to the day running of the health service.

Although politicians would continue to make important decisions about the health service (such as what core services should be provided across the country), set priorities, and allocate resources, it would be the board—appointed by parliament—that would implement the policies and set standards and ensure these were delivered “without any further political interference,” said James Johnson, chairman of the BMA.

“It is absolutely right that politicians should set the general direction for the NHS. But the day to day …