Leech backs Christie compensation claim in the Commons

12.35.00pm GMT Tue 10th Mar 2009

Withington MP John Leech has vowed to give The Christie his full support after it was announced that hospital's claim to recoup the £6.5 million that it lost as a result of the collapse of the Icelandic bank Kaupthing Singer and Friedlander (KSF) has been rejected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

John Leech MP has seen first hand the excellent work that is undertaken at The Christie

The pioneering cancer hospital will now be seeking a judicial review of decision, which could threaten future research projects, and Mr Leech is offering his full support.

Submitting a motion in Parliament in support of the hospital's claim, Mr Leech said:

"I am appalled by the decision of the FSCS to reject The Christie's claim. This is money that has been raised by public to help the hospital in its efforts to fight cancer, and it has been lost through no fault of the hospital, whose bosses were acting on the best possible advice at the time of its investment.

"I have spoken to hospital bosses and will be fully supporting them in their attempts to secure a judicial review of the case. The Christie is a world leader in cancer care and the FSCS' heartless decision must be reversed."

Mark Hunter, MP for Cheadle added:

"It is reassuring to hear that no jobs are under threat and that current services will be unaffected in spite of this news. The Christie offers outstanding care and support for cancer patients and their families, and I know that the staff will continue to do so regardless of the FSCS' decision."

"Nevertheless, I am shocked that the FSCS has not seen fit to back The Christie's claim. This is money that was donated in good faith to help in the fight against cancer, and it must be returned to The Christie so that it can be used as intended."

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Notes to editors:

1. John Leech has tabled the following Early Day Motion in support of The Christie's claim:

"That this House notes with dismay the decision by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme not to allow The Christie charity's claim for £6.5million after the collapse of the UK regulated bank Kaupthing Singer and Friedlander; further notes that this decision will have no impact on services or jobs, but that it puts under threat future research developments and new buildings ; recognises the outstanding healthcare and support provided by The Christie to cancer patients and their families and the contribution made by thousands of individuals who work tirelessly to raise money for the charity to support the work of The Christie; welcomes the plans by The Christie to apply for a judicial review to overturn the decision and looks forward to the money being returned to The Christie."