Commenting on the news that NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens is stepping down, Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers said:

"Simon has been an exceptional chief executive at a time of huge challenge for the NHS. He's led the service through the worst global pandemic in a century, including creating a world beating vaccination programme.

"He's set out a clear, universally supported, future strategy to integrate health and social care and improve health outcomes in key areas. And he's been a highly effective champion for the NHS inside government in areas such as securing extra NHS funding.

"He will be much missed."