I know that many residents are concerned about the future of the Horton General Hospital, particularly given the outcome of the Phase One consultation on Oxfordshire’s health and care services. This made permanent the temporary downgrading of the obstetrics unit at the Horton, although I did secure the guarantee from the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group that no action would be taken on this until the completion of the judicial review and the ongoing referrals with the Secretary of State for Health.

The local councils, along with the campaign group Keep The Horton General, had their case against the CCG’s consultation heard across two days in the Royal Courts of Justice last week. Although I was unable to attend due to business in the House, my Parliamentary Assistant Tommy Gilchrist was there on Thursday morning; my colleague Victoria Prentis MP and her team were there throughout.

From what I have heard, evidence was taken from both sides and the arguments were made very clearly; Mr Justice Mostyn was extremely thorough in his examinations. As I would not want to prejudice the outcome of his deliberations, I do not want to say more than this at this stage, however I look forward to hearing his judgement at the appropriate time.

I will, of course, continue to follow this closely on behalf of local residents but please do not hesitate to get in touch with me if you have any specific concerns.