MPs have told an independent panel reviewing the decision to close Leeds children’s heart surgery unit why it should stay open.
Politicians from across Yorkshire met members of the Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP) in the House of Commons.
The panel is carrying out a Government-ordered review of the national shake-up of children’s heart surgery services which has led to plans to close three units including the one at Leeds General Infirmary.
Their review is running in parallel to a legal challenge of the decision brought by campaigners in Leeds, which was at the High Court earlier this week.
As part of the IRP’s investigation, they met a cross-party group of MPs and Peers to talk about the need to keep the service in Leeds.
Pudsey MP Stuart Andrew said the unit was centrally located, offered excellent care, was at the heart of a strong network and had all of its maternity and children’s services on the same site.
He said: “My Parliamentary colleagues and I were pleased to have the opportunity to put these points to the IRP and I would urge readers to do likewise to make sure our region gets the quality children’s heart surgery service it deserves.
“Ultimately, the decision will leave Yorkshire with a worse children’s heart surgery service to that which it currently enjoys.”
The IRP are set to report back to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt by the end of March, after which he will consider their recommendations.
Before that the outcome of the judicial review over the decision should also be known.
A third day of evidence will be heard at the High Court on Monday, though the judgment is not expected to be handed down immediately.
To give feedback to the IRP as part of their review, email: info@irpanel.org.uk or leave a message at 020 7389 8046.
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