Dorset councils merger plan; NHS Cuts Across England

Plans to reorganise local government in Dorset in a bid to save cash are an "attack against democracy", an MP has claimed (BBC News).

"NHS cuts 'planned across England' (BBC News) - "The BBC has seen draft sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) which propose ward closures, cuts in bed numbers and changes to A&E and GP care in 44 areas. There have been no consultations on the plans so far. NHS England, which needs to find £22bn in efficiency savings by 2020-21, said reorganising local services is essential to improve patient care".