Responding to Liberal Democrats figures published today, which show a record 6.3 million patients in England waited more than the target time of four hours to be seen at A&E in 2023 – almost double the number five years ago – Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive at NHS Providers said:

"No one in pain or discomfort should have to wait longer than necessary for care.

"These worrying delays are symptomatic of the relentless pressure across the entire health and care system.

"The pandemic had a huge impact on A&E waiting times. High levels of hospital bed occupancy, delays in transferring medically fit patients out of hospital plus workforce shortages have also piled pressure on A&E in recent years.

"Trusts are trying to cut waits in line with the national urgent and emergency care recovery plan, but persistent challenges are slowing progress.

"Better investment in services is needed, as is a longer-term strategy to address the cycle of winter pressures, which tests staff resilience each year.

"A whole-government approach to public health issues, such as obesity and smoking, would also significantly help prevent avoidable illness."