MP Stone calls for child birth provision in Caithness
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North MP Jamie Stone has raised the plight of expectant mothers in Caithness during the debate on the Queen's Speech at the House of Commons.
In a debate regarding Government policy on the NHS, Mr Stone said that maternity provision in the far north of Scotland was an ongoing concern.
Mr Stone told the House: "Some months ago, a mother gave birth to twins 52 miles apart on the A9 from Caithness. In the past two days, a pregnant woman came all the way down from Caithness only then to have hours of agony because there was no bed ready for her.
"I concede that this is a devolved matter, but would Her Majesty’s Government, for my sake and that of my constituents, share the best safety practice with the Scottish Government and with NHS Highland?"
In reply, the health secretary Matt Hancock said: "We will absolutely do that. The Hon. Gentleman rightly says that this provision is a devolved matter, and we have already had a debate about the relative funding increases, but this case clearly needs looking at seriously.
"I will make sure I get in contact with my colleagues in the Scottish Government who are responsible for the provision of this service to make sure that it is looked at properly."
Speaking after the exchange, Mr Stone added: "I am very pleased that the secretary of state agrees with me that the Scottish Government needs to act and protect mothers in the far north.
"Despite repeatedly asking the Scottish Government for a safety audit during my first two years as an MP I have never received a response.
"I hope that the sharing of best safety practice with the SNP will encourage the Scottish Government to act and make the safety of mothers in my constituency a priority."
