Following reports in local media, Michael Fabricant has branded possible changes to the minor injuries unit at the Dr Samuel Johnson Hospital in Lichfield as “totally unacceptable”.

“I have written to Dr John James and officials at the local Clinical Commissioning Group based in Tamworth telling them that a major reduction in the hours or closure of the minor injuries unit would be totally unacceptable” says Michael Fabricant. “I explained that the minor injuries unit was well used at the old Victoria Hospital in Lichfield and continues to be an important resource at the Samuel Johnson Hospital which replaced it. Closure of the minor injuries unit, or any major reduction in its opening hours, will result in more pressure at already busy GP practices in the area.

“I have asked Dr James and the CCG for reassurances regarding their plans and, depending on his response, I may have to escalate this matter to Government Ministers at the Department of Health.”