The health rationing watchdog

[dilermando]

From Drug watchdog NICE 'spends more on 'spin' than tests on new treatments' | Mail Online

The health rationing watchdog has come under attack for spending more money on spin than on evaluating drugs which could save patients' lives.

What does the words in bold mean? It seems silly, but I have serious problems with the word "spin".

[Anglika]

"spin" comes from "To spin a line" = try to sell something to someone but puffing up its virtues and ignoring its disadvantages. What Alistair Campbell did for Tony Blair.

"Health rationing watchdog" = NICE [National Institute for Clinical Excellence] whose decision as to which drugs are economically viable to use within the NHS is essential, and at present contentious.