George calls for independent inquiry over unfair sacking of John Watkinson

11.05.2010  As reported in today’s Western Morning News, local MP Andrew George, is calling for an independent inquiry into the suspension and sacking of John Watkinson, the former Chief Executive of the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust.

Last week, Mr Watkinson won his case that he was unfairly dismissed from his post. The Employment Tribunal ruled that he was sacked following the Trust’s concerns about his stance over the controversial transfer of specialist cancer services out of the county.

Mr George said: “There is an urgent need for an independent inquiry over what went on. The Trust had five chief executives and five chairmen in a four year period and we now know that one of them was suspended improperly. The whole situation is unacceptable. Local people have been powerless to stop a series of catastrophic decisions made by Government officials and appointees.

“Very significant legal and compensation costs will now be borne by the NHS. However, this should not be at the expense of the local Hospitals’ Trust. It would be another travesty of justice if Cornish patients had to suffer the consequences of a decision which was not made in their name.

“Fingers now point at senior health officials, including the Strategic Health Authority and the Primary Care Trust.”

Mr George has written to the Health Secretary – Rt. Hon Andy Burnham MP – calling for a full independent inquiry to be undertaken.