Robinson blames Govt. targets for spread of superbugs

1.14.10am GMT Fri 31st Dec 2004

Stephen disusses with a local nurse the problems of keeping MRSA 'bugs' under control

Stephen Robinson has slammed Government targets for hampering hospital staff efforts to control infection. The West Chelmsford Lib Dem PPC says, "The decision to close six wards at Broomfield Hospital recently because of the MRSA superbug is extremely worrying . For those patients already receiving treatment and those due to be admitted it is essential that this infection is eradicated."

He went on, "The Government's obsession with targets just gets in the way. Government Ministers must get a grip on this situation and stop infections spreading. Their promises to fly in experts from overseas are an insult to experts in this country. We have infection control nurses and doctors who know what needs to be done. Frontline staff should be free from red tape and political interference so that they can get on with the job of treating patients, and preventing infections".