MINISTERS have been asked to intervene in the row over controversial proposals that could see key services cut at Maidstone Hospital.

Maidstone and the Weald MP, Ann Widdecombe (Con) has written to John Reid, the Health Secretary, to ensure he is aware of the growing concern.

Her letter follows an article in last week’s Kent Messenger, sister publication of Kent Online, in which consultants warned trust bosses of their grave concerns.

More than 50 senior clinicians, including many involved in emergency care, signed a petition opposing proposals to switch orthopaedic trauma care to Tunbridge Wells.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust claim the proposal, which is currently only at a discussion stage, is the preferred option of staff dealing with serious broken bone injuries and will improve patient care. The doctors who signed the petition claim, however, claim the proposal is “dangerous, ill-advised and unnecessary.”

Ms Widdecombe, a former shadow health secretary, said: “Having this support from consultants working at the hospital is extremely helpful and can only accumulate pressure on the trust.

“I have written to the secretary of state to make him aware of my real concern that if we move trauma to Tunbridge Wells it will probably put some of my constituents at risk. I have told the minister I will be grateful for his comments.”