Sherriff puts PM on the spot over future of A&E after 'scaremongering' claim

THERESA MAY has been challenged to promise accident and emergency departments in West Yorkshire are safe after she dismissed concerns over their future as 'scaremongering' during the general election campaign.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Jun 2017, 18:05 BST
Updated 15th Jun 2017, 13:55 BST
Conservative candidate Beth Prescott and Labour candidate Paula Sherriff, who was elected for a second term. Picture: Andrew BellisConservative candidate Beth Prescott and Labour candidate Paula Sherriff, who was elected for a second term. Picture: Andrew Bellis
Conservative candidate Beth Prescott and Labour candidate Paula Sherriff, who was elected for a second term. Picture: Andrew Bellis

In a letter to the Prime Minister, re-elected Dewsbury MP Paula Sherriff warned 430,000 people could be left without ready access to a comprehensive accident and emergency unit if changes to services in Dewsbury and Huddersfield go-ahead.

Ms Sherriff’s letter says: “To put it plainly, your comments have caused consternation among residents in my constituency and across Kirklees.

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“I and many local people have been shocked by your dismissal of the serious situation faced by NHS services here in Kirklees.

The letter continues: “In light of your comments, I would be grateful if you could clarify the situation facing Dewsbury District Hospital and Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

“Can you confirm that full A&E services will be retained?”

The Prime Minister was quizzed about local health services during a campaign rally at Thornhill cricket club on the last weekend before the election.

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She said: “My understanding is that there is some scaremongering going on about what’s going to happen.”

The future of NHS services was a key issue in several West Yorkshire constituencies at the election.

Related topics:Theresa MayWest YorkshirePrime MinisterDewsburyNHSKirkleesHuddersfield