NIGEL CHALLENGES PM OVER LITTLE HERMIONE

Local MP Nigel Waterson today challenged Prime Minister Gordon Brown in the Commons over plans to downgrade maternity services in Eastbourne.

“On New Year’s Day, little Hermione Bateman was born 11 weeks prematurely. She is only alive today because of the prompt emergency care she received at my local hospital.”

“Is the Prime Minister aware that in 15 months’ time a baby like Hermione would have to be taken 21 miles to Hastings to receive this life-saving care? Why are babies’ lives being put at risk in this way?”

Nigel commented afterwards: “I thought the Prime Minister’s response was complacent and ill-informed. He seemed to be under the impression that 6 new hospitals are being built in my area, and that local doctors support the maternity plans. Of course, every single local GP and some consultants oppose the downgrading of maternity in Eastbourne.”

16 January 2008