
MP asks for government help for hospital trust
South Lakes MP Tim Farron has asked the Government to step in and give support to the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust (UHMBT). In advance of a meeting between the Department of Health and local MP's Tim has sent a letter to Health Minister Dan Poulter, asking him to look at local moderation of tariffs paid to the trust for medical procedures. This would help the trust deal with its deficits and continue to improve patient care. Last September Tim secured £1,257,000 for the Trust to help cope with an expected upturn in winter patients. In the letter Tim says: "Dear Dan, I am writing concerning the University Hospitals Morecambe Bay Trust which serves my constituency. As you'll be aware, finances are strained for Trusts up and down the country, and UHMBT are facing particularly significant financial challenges. At present, the Trust has a deficit of £25 million, and need Government help to shift at least £15 million of it. Without providing a financial premium for healthcare services in geograph