David Ruffley MP today voiced his concerns about the Government announcement that the East Anglian Ambulance Trust, which covers Suffolk, is to become part of a new Regional Quango covering the entire East of England.

David said:

'Following the regionalisation of the Police and Fire services we now have the third emergency service being turned into a Regional Quango.

'I will certainly be monitoring the situation carefully to ensure that this top heavy management structure is sensitive to the needs of local people in Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket and the surrounding villages. At times because of poor planning, and not the fault of the hard working staff, target times for getting to local people needing treatment have been missed. This problem coupld reappear under this remote Regional Quango.

'The Minister in charge, Lord Warner, has admitted that 'concern was raised in the consultation that local responsiveness and flexibility could be lost through having larger trusts.' I will be watching closely to ensure that the needs of local people are considered by this new Regional Quango but I am sceptical that it will lead to a better service in Suffolk.'