Protest warning as Whittington hospital cuts fears linger
Published: 22 July, 2010
by TOM FOOT
CAMPAIGNERS have warned they will stage a second massive protest outside the Department of Health if they do not receive immediate confirmation that health secretary Andrew Lansley has kept his promise to stop cuts at Whittington Hospital in Highgate.
He can be seen on film on the New Journal’s website saying: “I can say the Whittington A&E department, if I am secretary of state, will be saved.” (click here)
Health bosses confirmed on Wednesday they have “halted” their reorganisation of acute hospital services in north London following an intervention from Mr Lansley.
But they said their proposals to strip the Whittington of vital services could continue – if GP leaders give the green light.
Stephen Conroy, the NHS official managing the review for North Central London (NCL) sector, said: “We will be doing a quick stock-take and publishing where we have got to so far.
“We will be speaking to our GP colleagues and see if they want to take that forward. If they, and the local authority, don’t want to take it forward – then the review will change direction.”
Dr Paddy Glackin, representing Camden doctors as secretary of the Local Medical Committee, said: “I would want to know which doctors they will be talking to and if they are talking about ones that work for them or us, for example.”
Defend Whittington Hospital Coalition chairwoman Shirley Franklin said: “We are appalled that these proposals could come back again.
“We want confirmation that no services will be taken out of the Whittington.”
Dr Jacky Davis will speak at a meeting of Camden Keep Our NHS Public group from 6.30pm on Tuesday in Somers Town Community Centre.