PM David Cameron: 'We hear' concern over NHS reform

The government is not taking risks with the NHS in England, Prime Minister David Cameron has said.

At the launch of a new push to convince critics that the reforms are right, he said sticking with the status quo was not an option.

The prime minister was joined by his deputy Nick Clegg and Health Secretary Andrew Lansley as they try to present a united front amid widespread criticism.

Labour has branded the reforms an "expensive PR stunt."

Speaking at a hospital in Surrey, Mr Cameron said change was necessary because of rising demands on the health service from factors such as the ageing population.

The government has also enlisted Professor Steve Field, the former chairman of the Royal College of GPs, to head a panel of health professionals which will lead the "listening exercise".