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HEALTH Secretary Alan Milburn is to be asked why only NHS managers are to be allowed to apply for the "franchise" to become chief executive running Walsgrave Hospital.
Coventry North West MP Geoffrey Robinson today fired off a letter to the health secretary asking why talented managers from outside the NHS were barred.
Mr Milburn has said that future "franchises" of hospitals after the summer will be opened up to both individuals and organisations from outside the NHS.
Mr Robinson said: "Why is not possible for the prospective chief executive for Coventry to be appointed from the wider pool of talent envisaged for the future?
"Surely that could only be advantageous and take no longer?"
The Department of Health has described the new appointment as a "franchise". The post will be limited to three years, reviewed yearly and the selection process more rigorous than normal. Applicants will have to show a detailed three year plan.
Mr Robinson has asked Mr Milburn to spell out the cost of the process.
He also urged him to make sure the trust dealt quickly with the case of surgeon Raj Mattu who is suspended amid allegations of harassment and intimidation.
Mr Robinson said to Mr Milburn: "I'm sure you would agree this is only going to set back relationships in this key area and I would urge a rapid decision be reached so that this doesn't become a festering sore."
He was sending a copy to Bryan Stoten, chairman of University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire.
