A few weeks ago it was announced that an independent review panel will be looking yet again at maternity and children's services in the Tees area. This new review undermines the earlier Darzi report and jeopardises the work already done.

The Darzi report argued that the creation of specialist centres of excellence in various fields would allow hospitals in the Tees area to build up capacity and remain sustainable.I believe that the Darzi report was correct in its conclusions. If the Darzi recommendations are put into place, this would see Hartlepool becoming a centre of excellence for women's and children's services. This new review threatens the future of women’s and children's services in Hartlepool.

When Parliament returns I hope to secure a debate about this vital issue. There will also be a need to make strong clinical and medical arguments to the independent review panel. But strong community protest is vital. I hope you and the rest of the town will join me in the campaign to save our hospital.