Arrested NHS chairman stands down

David Prior was MP for North Norfolk from 1997 to 2001

An NHS trust chairman and ex-Norfolk MP has stood down from his post while police investigate alleged financial irregularities at a psychiatric unit.

David Prior told staff at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital staff he would relinquish his responsibilities while the inquiry was under way.

He said: "I do not feel I can continue as chairman whilst allegations about me are outstanding.

"I will stand down temporarily as chairman until my innocence is proven."

Temporary measure

Mr Prior has said he will challenge allegations made over financial irregularities at Cawston Park Hospital in Norfolk.

He said: "Cawston Park provides care for patients suffering from a range of psychiatric conditions. I am the non-executive chairman of Chancellor Care which owns Cawston Park.

"I am not aware of any financial irregularities and believe that the allegations made against me are utterly without foundation."

Paul Forden, the chief executive at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, said: "I would like to emphasise the fact Mr Prior is standing down only temporarily whilst the allegations are outstanding.

"During this period David Wright will assume the chairmanship of the trust."