Express & Star

Stafford hospital crisis: MP Jeremy Lefroy calls for Commons debate

Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy has called for a Commons debate on paediatric training in the NHS following the suspension of children's A&E services in Stafford.

Published

University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust has declared the children's emergency centre at County Hospital 'clinically unsafe' due to a lack of staff trained in paediatrics or anaesthetics.

Mr Lefroy has raised the matter during leader's questions and called for a debate on the wider issue of training in the NHS.

In response, Leader of the House David Liddington MP said he understood why the issue is a concern – particularly given the history of hospital services in Staffordshire. He reiterated the Government's determination to continue to ensure 'the highest possible paediatric training standards'.

It comes as the Express & Star's petition demanding the A&E reopen to children immediately smashed through the 5,000 names barrier.

  • Sign our petition here

Speaking after the exchange Mr Lefroy said: "The Children's Emergency Centre at County Hospital Stafford, like the A&E of which it is part, is a critical part of the general health services used by the growing population of Stafford and the surrounding area.

"Following my meetings with the Trust chief executive, the medical director and the head of Emergency Services, I attended the Trust's annual meeting.

"Constituents of mine, whose families rely on the CEC, made it clear what a serious gap the temporary closure leaves and how services need to be restored as soon as possible.

"I urge the Trust to take the action, which it has already set out, without delay."

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.