ANDY BURNHAM told health workers yesterday that a Labour government would protect payment for unsocial hours, cut the agency bill and stop the NHS sell-off.

In his keynote speech to Unison health conference, the shadow health secretary repeated his warning that the NHS would not survive another five years of Tory rule.

He told delegates that introducing a proper workforce strategy would help cut the health service’s agency bill.

Unison head of health Christina McAnea said: “It is refreshing to hear a politician speak so honestly about supporting the NHS workforce and recognising their critical role in caring for patients and their families.

“Unlike the Tories, Labour has committed to protect unsocial hours payments, cut the huge agency staff bill and stop selling off our NHS — all issues our members feel strongly about.

“Now is time for a change. Time for a government that values workers and is committed to restoring NHS pay to a fair level, equipping the health service with enough staff so wards are safe and focusing on patients, rather than profits.”

She urged delegates to vote for the NHS on May 7.