HEALTH chiefs have hit back after an MP launched an attack over the proposed relocation of some orthopaedic services at Stockton's hospital.

Stockton North MP Frank Cook claimed that some of North Tees's orthopaedic services could be closed by the new year.

Last month, the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust unveiled plans to move some orthopaedic services from Stockton to Hartlepool, and cancer operations from Hartlepool to Stockton.

The aim is to provide centralised care for both, which would cut waiting lists and create centres of excellence.

Mr Cook also has minutes from a health trust meeting where bosses claimed they would not be consulting the public on the plans, despite assurances to the contrary.

But Dr Peter Royle, medical director of the trust, said the documents were three months old.

Trust chief executive Joan Rogers promised consultation and said the plans could not go ahead before April.

But Mr Cook said: "It is hardly surprising that local people have such little confidence in the good intentions of the trust and health authority when what is claimed in public is so different from what is said behind closed doors."

Dr Royle said: "The meeting that Mr Cook refers to took place over three months ago, on July 18, and was way before the trust had any firm proposals.

"We have always been committed to talking to local people. At the time, it was hoped that the process, including public consultation, could be completed by the end of the year. This has taken longer than anticipated."