Hooper steps down as Health Minister

'Resigning is the only card I have left to play'

Lawrie Hooper has resigned from his post as Health and Social Care Minister.

The Ramsey MHK made the announcement today (15 October) in the first Tynwald session after the summer recess.

He’s been in charge of the DHSC for the majority of the Cannan administration – barring a two-month interlude which saw Onchan MHK Rob Callister take on the role.

Mr Callister was in the job between September and November 2022 – whilst Mr Hooper moved to head up the Department for Enterprise.

Following Mr Callister’s sacking, Mr Hooper took charge of both departments simultaneously until Ayre and Michael MHK Tim Johnston took over at Enterprise in February 2023.

"It has become increasingly clear to me that the chief minister does not welcome my views and is not willing to listen the evidence presented to him, and that his views and mine over the future of the NHS are becoming increasingly diverged.

"I am now convinced that his ultimate aim is to try and privatise our health service, and that is not something I am able to support." 

Lawrie Hooper delivers resignation speech to Tynwald

In recent weeks, the now former-Health and Social Care Minister has come under fire as healthcare body Manx Care announced a series of service cuts to tackle a projected £16.8m overspend.

In Tynwald this morning, Mr Hooper was asked to provide a statement to clarify the reason for those decisions.

He had previously gone on record as saying the order came from 'on high', while Treasury Minister Alex Allinson confirmed it was not a Treasury decision.

"I apologise to the people of this Island for not being able to change this government's course from within.

"Resignation is the only card I have left to play."

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan described Mr Hooper's resignation as 'unfortunate' and thanked him for his work in the role over the past three years.

The Chair of Manx Care, Dr Wendy Reid, and Chief Executive Teresa Cope have issued a statement thanking Mr Hooper for his 'support'.

Their statement in full: "Manx Care would like to express thanks to Minister Hooper for his support, wise guidance and challenge during the inception and early years of our development.

"We have valued his insight and clarity on many issues and wish him well for the future. Manx Care will continue to strive for the best quality health and care possible for the people of the Isle of Man while delivering value for money.

"We look forward to working with the new Minister and team."

You can hear Mr Hooper's speech in full and Mr Cannan's response here: