Lords vote against plans to block Health and Social Care Bill

The House of Lords has voted against plans to block the government's controversial Health and Social Care Bill.

Members of the house have rejected two tabled amendments that would have caused a significant hindrance or even fatally undermined the NHS reform programme, which aims to introduce more choice and a patient-centric approach to healthcare.

A move by crossbenchers Lords Owen and Hennessy to send the legislation to be considered by a special committee over three months was defeated by a margin of 300 to 262.

Similarly, Labour peer Lord Rea's proposal to have the second reading of the bill refused altogether was declined by 354 votes to 220.

The news has been welcomed by the Department of Health, which said: "The vote today moves us one step closer to delivering a world-class health service that puts patients at its heart and hands more power to health professionals."

However, the British Medical Association said it is maintaining its stance that it would be better for the NHS if the bill were withdrawn or amended "substantially".