Tom Brake applies further pressure on the Government over BHCH

1.09.39pm GMT Tue 9th Feb 2010

MP for Carshalton and Wallington Tom Brake questioned the Government again last Tuesday over the funding for the Better Healthcare Closer to Home project.

Tom asked the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Mr Liam Byrne when he would grant final approval to the project and if he would meet with concerned local MPs to ensure that pressure was maintained on the different partners to ensure the delivery of the project.

Mr Byrne told Tom that, 'Moving health care closer to home is a policy objective of this Government. I think that the hon. Gentleman has in mind a scheme that has been submitted by his local NHS to the Department of Health. That scheme is currently under consideration by that Department and when it comes to me, I can assure him that I will review it thoroughly, but also promptly.'

He also went on to tell Tom that he would be happy to meet with him and other MPs about the project.

After leaving the Chamber, Tom said, 'Although I am pleased that the Government recognises the importance of BHCH, I am disappointed though that the business case wasn't handed over to the Treasury at the agreed time. This delay must not be allowed to jeopardise the scheme.'