30 seconds with Gordon Brown

What would you say if you had 30 seconds with Gordon Brown? If you have asthma, there’s a strong chance you would use it to make the case for free prescriptions in England.

On Monday, you might just get the chance.

That’s the day we are calling on you to ring 10 Downing Street and ask to be put through to the Prime Minister so you can ask him to deliver on his prescription promise. You’ll be joining forces with members and supporters of over 20 other charities who are signed up to our campaign for free prescriptions for all of us with long-term conditions.

Of course, you might be put onto an aide to record your comments. But as we know, Gordon Brown has form in early morning phone calls with voters so there is a possibility you will be put right through.

If you are, he may argue that he can only deliver free prescriptions when it is affordable.

It’s true that the economy has nose-dived since Gordon Brown made his pledge at Labour Conference in 2008.

But the economy has hit people with conditions like asthma hard too. Many tell us they cannot afford all their prescriptions and are having to go without medicines that form an important part of their care. Current policy simply isn’t fair and can’t be defended.

With just weeks to go before a General Election, we want to see the Prime Minister implement his pledge now – not leave it to wait as a manifesto commitment.

Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have or are already acting to make prescriptions free.

The British Medical Association, the Fabian Society and many other organisations think prescriptions should be free.

And Professor Ian Gilmore, President of the Royal College of Physicians, thinks prescriptions should be free and submitted his report back to Government in November about how to make it happen.

So come on Mr Brown. Don’t delay. Tell us what you will do.

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