Minister looks at hospital deaths

The hospital was heavily criticised by the Healthcare Commission

The new health secretary has said he cannot guarantee a public inquiry into the failings at Stafford Hospital but will look into the issue.

Patients' families have wanted an inquiry since a watchdog said there had been hundreds more deaths between 2005 and 2008 than there should have been.

The government has so far rejected calls for an inquiry.

However, the new minister Andy Burnham said looking at the issue was one of his priorities.

Mr Burnham was moved to the Department of Health in Gordon Brown's reshuffle last week.

The Healthcare Commission criticised the hospital for "appalling failings".

Millions pledged

"It's an issue that is in my in-tray," he told BBC News.

"I would not want to make any snap judgements about the issue nor what it means for change to the system.

"But, I will take a very close look at what's gone on and will make further statements in due course."

He said he had asked for a report and information on what had happened and wanted to ensure the failings of care were not repeated.

The commission reported deficiencies at "virtually every stage" of emergency care and said managers pursued targets to the detriment of patient care.

It said that, while it was impossible to blame all of the extra deaths on the hospital's care, some patients would have died as a result.

Last month the hospital outlined planned improvements in areas such as staffing levels, facilities and equipment as part of its Confidence in Care plan.

Millions of pounds has been pledged to improve patient care.

Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust said most of its 107 improvement goals would be achieved within eight months.