Cameron's first Conservative conference speech as party leader

In his inaugural speech as the leader of the Conservative Party, David Cameron addressed the party conference in Bournemouth, emphasizing the importance of the National Health Service (NHS). He characterized the NHS as one of the most significant achievements of the 20th century, highlighting its role in British society. Cameron drew a parallel to former Prime Minister Tony Blair's focus on education, succinctly stating that his own priority could be summed up in three letters: N.H.S. This statement underscored his commitment to healthcare as a central tenet of his leadership and policy agenda. Cameron's speech also included a personal element, as he spoke about his severely disabled son, Ivan. This reference served to illustrate his deep connection to the NHS, as he expressed a personal stake in its effectiveness and reliability. He assured the audience that the NHS would be safe under his leadership, reflecting his family's frequent reliance on its services. This blend of personal narrative and political commitment aimed to resonate with the audience, reinforcing the message that healthcare was not just a political issue for him, but a deeply personal one.