Children’s Heart Surgery

Catherine McKinnell Excerpts

Wednesday 12th June 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Hunt]

I can absolutely give that assurance. The fact that the engagement with the public in this process was not as genuine as it should have been is one of the biggest lessons for the NHS to learn.

[Catherine McKinnell (Newcastle upon Tyne North) (Lab)]

Two years ago, almost to the day, we debated the issue in the House. I said at the time, and reiterate today, that the issue must be resolved as quickly as possible to end the damaging delay and uncertainty, and to secure the safety of children and the best clinical care for them. The Secretary of State has given a variety of reassurances, but I would like to hear a cast-iron reassurance, for my constituents, that in any future decision, clinical expertise and care will be paramount, and that this will be resolved as quickly as possible.

[Mr Hunt]

I am very happy firmly to give both those assurances.