The British Prime Minister, Tony Blair -- whose government has come under intense criticism in recent weeks over inadequacies in the National Health Service -- has agreed problems exist.

But in a television interview, he said government spending on the health service will match levels in the rest of Europe within five years.

He said recruitment was underway for more nurses and more doctors.

But he stressed it wasn't just a question of resources -- a change in the structure of the health service was also needed.

A severe outbreak of influenza has put pressure on the state-funded health system, leading to increased criticism over lack of beds and the length of waiting time for treatment.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service