David Ruffley MP has called a top level meeting with the Chief Executive of West Suffolk Hospital NHS Trust, Chris Bown, on Friday 28 September at 2.30pm. Acting Chairman, John Cullum, and Medical Director, Dr Roy Bannon, will also be in attendance.

The East of England Strategic Health Authority (SHA) is currently carrying out a review of acute services in the Eastern Region and this may impact on the level of provision at West Suffolk Hospital.

David said:

'The West Suffolk Hospital is a facility that is vital to our local community.

'I am looking forward to meeting with the Chief Executive, Chris Bown, and other members of the board to receive an update on the current situation at the hospital.

'Statistics I released last week, which revealed attendances at the West Suffolk's Accident & Emergency Department have soared by 40 percent in 9 years, demonstrate the clear need for a first rate A & E at the Hospital.

'It is my fear that the SHA's review of acute services may be an excuse to begin the salami slicing of services at West Suffolk Hospital so that the facilities that currently benefit our community are eroded over time.

'I will continue to hold regular meetings with Chris Bown, and other members of the Trusts' board, to give my support and listen to concerns.

'I will be fighting tooth and nail to ensure that we retain first class acute services at the West Suffolk Hospital.'