Addressing ongoing concerns over an NHS shake-up, David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Andrew Lansley joined forces on a recent hospital visit.

They said the Government would "pause, listen, reflect and improve" on the planned NHS changes.

The Prime Minister said: "sticking with the status quo is not going to work".

"Modernisation is not just a good idea to save money and build a better health service, it is, in my view, essential for a better NHS for our future.”

He added: "I believe passionately in the changes we have set out.

"I also know that we need the people who work in the NHS to be on board, so we will listen and we will make any necessary changes."

Before presenting proposals to MPs, Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said he wanted to listen to people's opinions about the Health and Social Care Bill.

Abolishing primary care trusts and handing responsibility for commissioning health services to Gps are among proposals in the bill.

After Liberal Democrats called for amendments to the proposals, Deputy PM Nick Clegg promised to address concerns.

The Government have urged the NHS to modernise to keep up with demand on services, an ageing population and rising costs of treatments.

However the new bill continues to face criticism from doctors, unions and patient groups. They are concerned over the increased role for the private sector and fears that more competition will lead to the closure of some NHS units.

(BMcN/GK)