Steve Webb MP Visits Bedford Hospital

8.18.31pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 31st Oct 2006

Lib Dem Shadow Health Secretary, Steve Webb MP visited Bedford Hospital today, along with local campaigners Christine McHugh and Michael Headley.

Steve Webb met with the hospital's Chief Executive and Chair to discuss the current situation and the future for the hospital.

Steve Webb said "Patients and staff at Bedford Hospital are having to deal with the consequences of the financial pressures that are afflicting the NHS."

"Bedford Hospital is fighting a constant battle to balance the books in the face of the government's financial squeeze on District General Hospitals. What the hospital needs is to be allowed to plan for the future as a viable District General Hospital, providing the services that local people have a right to expect."

"I have been highly impressed by the resolve of local Liberal Democrat campaigners to support the hospital. It is important that the government listens to the views of local people about local health services."

To sign the "Save Bedford Hospital" petition click on www.savebedfordhospital.org