Government must take blame for hospital job cuts - Liz Lynne

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 27th Apr 2006

Liz Lynne meeting staff at Kidderminster Hospital

The Government must take responsibility for the 720 jobs to be cut by the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the region, said today.

The trust announced earlier this month that it would be cutting the jobs at three hospitals in order to help tackle debts of £30 million. On Friday, Liz Lynne visited Kidderminster Hospital, one of the hospitals affected, to meet staff and local campaigners to see what can be done to minimise the impact on patients.

Speaking after the visit, Liz Lynne said:

"The threat of job cuts is taking its toll on staff morale, which is already low, and is worrying for patients: cutting 720 jobs can only have a negative effect on patient care. It is a credit to the staff that despite everything they continue to work in such a committed and professional manner."

"The Government must carry the can for these job losses, which are the result of its permanent revolution in the NHS. Five years ago, we were told extra investment would improve the NHS. Hiring staff one year and sacking them the next is no way to build a sustainable healthcare system."

Adrian Beavis, a local campaigner and council candidate, added:

"Local residents are understandably concerned that waiting lists could be stretched. We must now do whatever we can to ensure we fight these cuts and protect patient services."

ENDS