Health campaigners persuaded politicians to pledge to fight their corner for Southampton ahead of looming reforms signalling the biggest NHS reforms in a generation.
Protestors from the Southampton Keep Our NHS Public gathered on the steps outside Southampton Civic Centre yesterday waving flags and placards.
Later they handed in a petition of nearly 2,000 signatures calling for the council to ensure it stands up for the city in the wake of reforms triggered by the Government's Health and Social Care Bill.
Councillors passed a motion forwarded by Cllr Pope agreeing to stand up for the city.
Group member Jane Freeland said: "We urge all party members whatever your party to recognise the danger of this bill and its threat to public integrity and integration."
Cllr Pope warned that the Any Qualified Provider rule for procurement will harm the NHS and cost Southampton NHS £16m.
He said: "We are seeing Southampton General under intense pressure. Do we really have the money to spend?"
But Cllr Bailey branded it a "ridiculous" motion because the bill has already been passed.
He said: "This puts Labour's political ideology ahead of what's best for the patient."
