AN MP has demanded answers over an empty medical practice and hospital ward in her constituency.
Bishop Auckland MP, Helen Goodman, raised concerns in Parliament on Tuesday about rent charges by NHS Property Services which she said have left Shildon Medical Centre and part of the Richardson Hospital, in Barnard Castle, empty.
Ms Goodman said the charges were "too high" and asked: "When will the Secretary of State sort out this waste of resources?"
Minister of State for Health, Stephen Barclay, said there was a "variance in the system".
He said: "The party opposite simply see the debate in terms of how much is put in, whereas on this side of the House, we recognise we need to invest more in the NHS but ensure we get the best outcomes."
Speaking afterwards Ms Goodman said: “This was a terrible answer by the Tory Health Minister. My question was not asking for more resource but for the government to use existing resources properly.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel