• MP calls on local Tories to follow the example of others and to denounce Cameron's campaign
• MP says Cameron tactic is grossly unfair to staff, as it undermines morale

Warwick & Leamington MP James Plaskitt today said that Tory leader David Cameron owed Warwick Hospital an apology, after publishing a list yesterday claiming that it's A&E and maternity units were threatened with closure.

Shortly after the Tory leader published his list, this claim was strongly denied by Warwick Hospital.

The Tory 'closure' list has already been denounced by one Tory MP. Henry Bellingham, a Norfolk MP, has issued an apology to Kings Lynn hospital, after Cameron made the same claims there.

Mr Plaskitt is angry that the Tory leader has issued this list again, after trying earlier this year to claim that Warwick faced closures. This was strongly rejected by Warwickshire NHS and by the hospital itself. Equally strong denials have had to be issued again.

Mr Plaskitt said, "This political stunt by Mr Cameron shows that he has no regard at all for staff and patients at Warwick Hospital. He is giving rise to unfounded fears."

Mr Plaskitt added, "Around the country local Conservatives have been rejecting this latest Cameron campaign. So I call on local Tory candidates and councillors to do the same, and to apologise to Warwick Hospital for their leader's decision once again to make these unfounded claims."

Mr Plaskitt said, "The review of local services was concluded some time ago. Warwick Hospital got a vote of confidence. Its services are secure as are its finances. Key services are actually expanding. Its time the Tories stopped trying to undermine morale at Warwick Hospital."