The health secretary is today expected to launch a consultation on the best way to measure improvements in hospital care.

Under the current scheme, NHS trusts are awarded stars according to their performance in 62 key areas, such as waiting times and cleanliness.

It is thought that John Reid will announce a shift towards a smaller number of "quality objectives" for hospitals to meet.

The Guardian reports that the move is part of a concerted government effort to reduce central control of key services.