Cambridgeshire Lib Dem MPs demand urgent action on water safety in hospitals

Cambridgeshire MPs Ian Sollom and Charlotte Cane have backed a letter from Jess Brown-Fuller, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Hospitals and Primary Care, calling for an investigation into water contamination in NHS hospitals.

It follows news that Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge paid a six-figure settlement after nine patients contracted a bacterial infection linked to its water supply, with three patients dying, two as a result of related complications.

The two Cambridgeshire MPs said: “Although the contamination of water occurred in 2019, it is completely unacceptable that this should have happened at all. Patients should never have to worry that the very place they come for care could put their lives at risk.

“The fact this happened at a brand-new hospital that only opened in 2019 is particularly concerning. If water safety issues can arise at a new facility built to modern standards, what does this say about the risks at older hospitals with aging infrastructure? Much of the NHS estate is unfit for purpose, with broken lifts, crumbling ceilings and leaking roofs now commonplace. If hospitals are vulnerable even while following regulations, the system is failing.

“The Liberal Democrats are calling for an urgent investigation into water safety and the condition of NHS Trust estates, without delay. After years of neglect, the government must act now to protect patients and prevent further tragedies.”