NHS IT programme spiralling out of control

5.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 18th Apr 2007

David Howarth, Lib Dem MP for Cambridge, has called for an independent inquiry into the controversial NHS IT programme Connecting for Health.

Mr. Howarth's comments follow the publication of a report by cross-party MPs yesterday which criticised the multi-billion pound project to link GPs and hospitals in England.

Mr. Howarth said:

"The Government is burying its head in the sand over the major problems with this programme. Costs are spiraling, delays are mounting up and compatibility problems are disrupting local hospitals. Patients' lives could be put at risk by further technical problems.

David Howarth MP with Cllr Geoff Heathcock outside Addenbrooke's Hospital (photography: Alice Douglas)

David discussed local NHS services with local Health spokesperson Geoff Heathcock

"The Government needs to halt any further spending on this project until an independent inquiry can be carried out. We need to find out if it is possible to fix this project or if it can be adapted to what doctors say that they need."

Bookmark this story at: del.icio.us Digg Facebook LibDig reddit StumbleUpon
Print this news story
Previous news story: Sellafield scandal highlights culture of secrecy (Wed 18th Apr 2007).
Next news story: Government's nuclear sums don't add up (Fri 20th Apr 2007).

Printed and hosted by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY.
Published and promoted by Cambridge Liberal Democrats, 16 Signet Court, Cambridge .
The views expressed are those of the party, not of the service provider.