The MPs and Council Leaders for Bromsgrove, Redditch and Stratford-on-Avon have met in Westminster with the Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt, to press for assurances on the Alexandra Hospital’s future. Following the relocation of maternity services from the Alexandra Hospital to Worcester Royal Hospital, local leaders are working to ensure that there is no permanent loss or deterioration of treatments available to residents. They therefore arranged to meet with Jeremy Hunt to seek assurance and a clear plan for resolving the long-running uncertainties about the Alex’s future. Responding, Mr Hunt said: “The local leaders have made clear to me how important it is that we secure a lasting and expedient resolution. The upcoming publication of the Independent CQC Inspection report into Worcestershire services will serve as an important benchmark in moving forwards. Following this, I will be calling on NHS Improvement to present their plan for the future directly to me and to local MPs”. In a joint statement responding to Mr Hunt’s comments, the local leaders said: “We welcome the Health Secretary’s personal assurance and action plan to take control of this situation and the future of our hospital. We now anticipate the release of the crucial CQC report and our next meeting with the Health Secretary and NHS Improvement in January. Let’s get this situation sorted once and for all. It’s time to get a grip to protect our local health service.” In attendance at the meeting were: • Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP, Secretary of State for Health • Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP for Bromsgrove • Karen Lumley MP for Redditch • Nadhim Zahawi MP for Stratford-on-Avon • Cllr Margaret Sherrey, Leader of Bromsgrove District Council • Cllr Bill Hartnett, Leader of Redditch Borough Council • Cllr Mike Gittus, Chairman of Stratford-on-Avon District Council