Andrew Gwynne MP, Labour’s Shadow Health Minister, responding to reports of an acute shortage of midwives in maternity departments in hospitals, said:

“David Cameron promised 3,000 more midwives, but he’s failing to deliver them.

“Across England, too many maternity units are operating without enough staff - unable to keep up with demand - whilst others are facing closure or downgrading.

“Experts have warned the Government about high vacancy levels and staff shortages, but Ministers continue to ignore them. Labour is committed to safe staffing levels based on expert advice.

“This is yet more proof that you can’t trust the Tories with the NHS.”