The “dumbing down” of Staffordshire Ambulance Service could cost up to 20 lives a year, MPs were due to be told in the House of Commons today.

Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant has secured an emergency debate on the issue to discuss the withdrawal of vital life-saving drugs and equipment from volunteer paramedics.

The number of medicines which can be administered by Staffordshire Ambulance Service’s community first responders was reduced in October on the grounds of patient safety, from 13 to six.

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The “dumbing down” of Staffordshire Ambulance Service could cost up to 20 lives a year, MPs were due to be told in the House of Commons today.

Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant has secured an emergency debate on the issue to discuss the withdrawal of vital life-saving drugs and equipment from volunteer paramedics.

The number of medicines which can be administered by Staffordshire Ambulance Service’s community first responders was reduced in October on the grounds of patient safety, from 13 to six.

The move came after it was claimed that some were not eligible for use by lay people under the national legal framework for medicines, prompting a storm of protest from volunteer paramedics and Mr Fabricant.

The MP was due to call on the Government to intervene.

Speaking before the debate, Mr Fabricant said: “We are witnessing a tragedy unfolding before our eyes as the finest ambulance service in Europe is having equipment and drugs withdrawn.

“These procedures which are now being withdrawn are estimated to save 20 lives a year in Staffordshire which will now be lost as a consequence.”