Two in three NHS trusts have missed targets to treat patients within 18 weeks every month since the last general election, Labour Party analysis shows.

Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive, NHS Providers, said:

"NHS staff continue to work at full pelt to see patients as quickly as possible and have succeeded in cutting the longest waits for treatment.

"Demand is through the roof in many health services where pressure is relentless yet trusts have been working flat out on post-pandemic recovery plans. Waiting lists for planned treatment were growing before Covid-19 struck after years of severe NHS staff shortages and underfunding of services.

"Reducing waiting times is a top priority for leaders across hospital, mental health, ambulance and community health services working closely with local partners."