Rutland MP Alicia Kearns is demanding to know how health bosses came up with their arguments to close a birthing unit that serves much of the county.

The MP says that with Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) consulting on their planned changes to hospital services in Rutland and Leicestershire, she will work hard to ensure Melton residents have their say and people have access to the information they need.

The MP said on Facebook: "Having discussed the issue with the CCG directly, I have written to them asking for clarity on how the decision was reached on St Mary's Birthing Centre, future provision of services, and specifically what maternity services would continue at Melton Hospital.

"We need a comprehensive plan to ensure sustainability of healthcare provision in Melton. I am seeking a further meeting with the CCG on these matters, and will be pushing for significant consultation with our communities."

Her comments come amid campaigns against the planned closure of the birthing unit.

As previously reported by Nub News, Rutlanders are urged to sign a petition against the closure of the birthing unit.

The Rutland Health and Social Care Policy Consortium has also issued 'an open letter' on the changes proposed by the CCG, as can be found here.