A Harrow councillor insists that the Conservatives “do care” about the NHS after he praised nurses in a speech at his party’s conference.

Cllr Ameet Jogia, who represents Canons ward, thanked the staff who cared for his father at Northwick Park Hospital and said he “truly appreciates” the work they do.

And while he insisted that his speech was not intended to be overly political, he noted that all parties have a duty to support the health service in the UK.

“My experience was a real eye-opener – you don’t fully appreciate it until you are fully involved,” he said.

“You see how hard they work, and they don’t get the credit they deserve. They were absolutely essential to my dad and we mustn’t undervalue their contribution.”

He pointed out that the NHS is under increasing strain, particularly with people living longer, and urged the Government to focus on things such as increasing the number of early diagnoses and improving adult social care.

But he described the perceived Labour “monopoly” on the NHS as a “myth” and suggested that his party is the one to improve the situation.

“The NHS is under pressure but there is a plan in place to address the need for more funding,” he said.

“Only with a strong economy and by investing in and empowering our public sector workers can we truly deliver a high-quality public sector for all.

“The Conservative contribution doesn’t always make the news, and it was great to see the Government announce that it will provide an extra £20.5 billion to the NHS on its 70th anniversary.”