National MP David Carter says he is concerned that the closure of Hillmorton Hospital will tip patients over the edge.

Mr Carter and fellow National MP Pansy Wong spoke to picketing patients outside Hillmorton Hospital today. "These patients are very scared and have every right to be because the Government is closing down their lifeline. The patients I've spoken to today are very fragile and worried that the closure is enough to tip some patients over the edge.

"It defies belief to see the Government happily walking away from its responsibility to provide these core health services. If Annette King is incapable of solving this crisis then Helen Clark should stand her aside and take responsibility herself.

"Patients are telling me that cutting these services may lead to some patients harming themselves and suicides. It is extraordinary that a Minister is continuing to ignore the dire warnings from clinical directors and patients," Mr Carter said.

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