BOSSES at the hospital trust which runs an underfire urology department have backed calls for a public inquiry.

Following The Mail's investigation into concerns in the department at the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust stretching back 19 years MPs last week wrote to health secretary Matt Hancock calling for a public inquiry.

The investigation was sparked by whistle-blower Peter Duffy's book Whistle in the Wind which detailed errors made by three of his former colleagues.

Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock, one of four MPs who penned the letter, this week met with the trust's chief executive Aaron Cummins.

Mr Cummins has now said the trust supports the calls for an independent public inquiry or investigation into the urology services.

Mr Cummins added: "I apologise for anything we have done that has caused any further concern for our public.

“I have written to every patient and family that we can identify in the book, offering to meet and support them with any further questions that they may now have.

“I have also written to Mr Duffy to request a meeting.

“I want to completely understand Peter’s full concerns and share further any new relevant information with him.

“I want all of our staff to feel confident and supported if they speak out and raise concerns and that they trust they will be listened to, and I can honestly see John’s point of view and why some people may not believe that to be the case.

“John and other MPs are rightly holding us to account to ensure appropriate action is being taken and I thank him for his time yesterday.

“We do still have a well-performing and safe urology service at the trust with dedicated and committed colleagues.

“If a urology patient has any concerns please do not hesitate to contact our Patient Relations team on 01539 715577."