Speaking in the House of Commons, Charles Walker condemns the 'brutal' way in which Hertfordshire NHS Trusts have two years to pay of a £55 million deficit which will involve significant reduction in services.

Mr. Charles Walker (Broxbourne) (Con): As a Member representing a Hertfordshire seat, I must point out that the deficits are being addressed in a completely brutal way, putting financial requirements ahead of clinical needs. We have been given two years to pay off a £55 million deficit. That will involve a significant reduction in services to my constituents in Hertfordshire.

Mr. Jackson: I sympathise greatly with my hon. Friend. My own trust has seen a £7.7 million deficit resulting in the loss of 185 posts and many bed and ward closures. I commend to the House the sterling efforts of all the Members of Parliament representing the Hertfordshire constituencies on behalf of their constituents to fight the Government's wrong-headed plans.

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