Johnson challenges the Health Secretary over the Sick Kids

Labour MSP for Edinburgh Southern, Daniel Johnson, challenged the Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, over her handling of the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.

In the Chamber at Holyrood earlier Mr Johnson cited the findings of the KPMG report and the recently announced review into the new hospital building process, as evidence of a lack of ministerial responsibility by the Health Secretary.

Daniel Johnson MSP, said:“The Health Secretary has finally admitted that an inquiry is needed to get to the bottom of the problems affecting the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People. This is a massive U-turn after weeks of pressure from me and fellow Scottish Labour colleagues.”

“The need for an inquiry is the clearest sign yet that the Health Secretary has dropped the ball on this.”

“Jeane Freeman had previously informed parliament that the recent KMPG and NSS reports were enough and no inquiry was required.” 

“The KPMG Report begs the question of whether ministers should have known sooner and if they did, could have stopped the scandal earlier.”

“That’s what this inquiry has to answer and what Jeane Freeman has to take responsibility for.”

“The conclusions of the inquiry are vital and will determine if people can have confidence in her to look after Scotland’s NHS.