The former leader of the Conservative Party has spoken out in support for the NHS Long Term Plan.

Chingford and Woodford Green MP Mr Duncan Smith has praised the plan, declaring it “will protect the future of the NHS for generations to come”.

Last year an extra £20.5 billion was pledged to the NHS.

In return, the NHS was asked to present a plan for this additional funding.

The plan was published on Monday and is focused on prevention through the investment of £4.5 billion in primary and community care, supporting GPs, health visitors and community nurses in Waltham Forest and Redbridge.

He said: ““The Long Term Plan for the NHS will protect the future of the NHS for generations to come by ensuring every penny of the accompanying £20.5 billion of extra funding is spent wisely.

“This historic funding increase underpinning the plan is due to the Conservatives balanced approach to the economy – proving that the NHS is our number one spending priority.

“I am also pleased that it has been developed by the NHS, ensuring it will work for both patients and staff.

“The need for more staff is at the heart of the plan, with tens of thousands more doctors, nurses and other health professionals improving access to healthcare for people in Chingford and Woodford Green as well as across the country.

“Having spent a few hours watching the incredible work going on in the Whipps Cross Accident and Emergency unit I was humbled by the dedication the nurses, doctors and surgeons showed.

“I hope in some way this extra spending shows that we value the dedication of all our NHS staff as at its heart, this plan and its extra spending allows us to put people first.”

He yesterday spoke at Prime Minister’s Question time at Parliament asking about the decision for capital funding for NHS Barts Health Trust Whipps Cross Hospital.

The question Mr Duncan Smith posed at the House of Commons was uploaded to the MP's instagram account @iain_duncan_smith_mp.