A BRADFORD MP has raised concerns about the creation of wholly owned subsidiary’ companies by NHS trusts.

Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospital, is looking to set up a subsidiary company and one is being established by the Airedale NHS Foundation Trust. It means the management and maintenance of hospital estates and facilities - and the staff that provide these services - are moved from the NHS into the new companies.

Speaking in a Westminster Hall debate, Bradford South MP Judith Cummins said: "One of the major problems with the creation of these wholly owned companies is that they lead to a two-tier workforce in which often the lowest paid staff such as domestics and security guards will be on worse terms and conditions than other staff."

The Royal College of Nursing has also raised concerns.