During times when funds are tight and the flow of finances is slow, it has been discovered that the NHS's spending on agency staff has literally "soared" over the past few years, while, on the other hand, permanent posts are being frozen as the service prepares itself for a further squeeze in funds available.

The fund spent on temps by hospitals and NHS trusts, which are responsible for taking care of community services, had managed to hit nearly 1.3 Billion Pounds in England over last year alone, which is a whopping 60% hike in a mere 2 years.

The figures were obtained from the Government from the Tories, who readily termed the spending as "wasteful".

In their defense, NHS managers have insisted that it was sometimes much more cost effective to use agencies. Until 2011, the health services has its funding guaranteed, but post that, it could face a definite cut.

Ministers are now advising the NHS to start planning for tougher times.

"We are facing a glum financial outlook and it may be that trusts are slowing down their permanent recruitment. However, appointing permanent staff can be more expensive if you are looking to change services as we will have to do", said Sian Thomas, Director of NHS Employers.