Tories, hear this: the public still believes in the NHS on its 75th birthday – and we know you don’t

‘Tory governments that have overseen the NHS for two-thirds of its life have, with gritted teeth, had to swear undying allegiance.’ Rishi Sunak visits Addenbrooke’s hospital, Cambridge, 30 June 2023. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/PA

Westminster Abbey on Wednesday morning will be filled with NHS staff in their uniforms as the “national religion” gives thanks for its 75th birthday. Hymns adapt quite easily: Abide With Me might be the dirge-like tone for those in peril on the wards.

Prayers from the pews, among junior doctors and consultants about to strike and nurses who could strike no longer, will be full of mixed emotions. Managers, faced with a record staff exodus, will be praying to get through next winter.