The latest NHS data shows a third consecutive monthly drop in the waiting list for elective care in England, but health policy experts caution that the decline cannot be straightforwardly claimed as a victory for the Labour government.
Waiting List Figures
As of May 2026, the waiting list stood at 7.54 million, down from 7.61 million in April. This marks the lowest level since November 2024. The number of people waiting more than 18 weeks also fell, from 3.86 million to 3.79 million. However, the number of those waiting over a year increased slightly to 305,000.
Expert Analysis
Professor John Appleby, director of research at the Nuffield Trust, said: “While any reduction in waiting lists is welcome, it’s important to note that the fall began before the election and is part of a seasonal pattern. Attributing this to Labour policy would be premature.” The waiting list peaked at 7.77 million in September 2024 under the previous Conservative government.
Government Response
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We are pleased to see waiting lists falling, but we know there is much more to do. Our reforms are focused on long-term sustainability, not short-term wins.” The government has pledged to increase capacity and improve efficiency, including through new surgical hubs and better use of technology.
Impact on Patients
Patient groups remain concerned about the high numbers waiting for treatment. Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients Association, said: “A drop is good news, but 7.54 million people still waiting is a huge number. Many are in pain or anxious, and we need sustained progress, not just a few months of improvement.”
Political Context
The waiting list figures come ahead of the next general election, expected in 2029. Labour has made reducing NHS waiting times a key pledge. However, experts caution that the current decline may reflect seasonal factors, such as lower demand in spring and summer, rather than policy impact. The waiting list remains significantly above pre-pandemic levels of around 4.4 million.
