Brighton MP seeks urgent hospital meeting with Chancellor

The Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown, Simon Kirby, has asked for an urgent meeting with the Chancellor George Osborne to discuss hospital funding.

Mr Kirby is concerned about the delay in releasing funds for the revamp of the Royal Sussex County Hospital which is in his constituency.

He said: “I was delighted when the £420 million funding for redeveloping the Royal Sussex County Hospital was announced as this will ensure we have the best possible healthcare facilities for patients.

“However, I am becoming increasingly concerned at the delay in this funding being released.”

Brighton and Hove City Council gave the scheme planning permission more than a year ago.

And the Department of Health also gave its support last year to Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the Royal Sussex.

Funding was due to be signed off in April last year, Mr Kirby said, adding that concerns about the trust’s finances had resulted in delays.

He said: “I have contacted the Chancellor requesting a meeting to discuss this important issue so that we can have a hospital fit for the 21st century.

“I will continue to press this issue and to work hard for local people as a strong voice for our area.”