BURNLEY MP Peter Pike has refused to back government plans to give so-called Foundation Hospitals new freedom to borrow money, set pay rates and develop new services.
Yesterday he abstained from a government vote on the issue over his concerns that the new scheme could lead to the break-up of the National Health Service.
Many Labour back benchers fear the Foundation Hospitals will amount to semi privatisation of some parts of the NHS.
Today Mr Pike said: "I abstained from the government vote on Foundation Hospitals. "I remain unconvinced of the case to move in this direction.
"Whilst I would not vote against the government, I could not support the government on this issue.
"I hope they will think again on this subject."
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