TWO politicians have backed calls for an independent inquiry into Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

At the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, Welsh Secretary David TC Davies called on the Welsh Government to launch an independent inquiry to uncover the "many drastic failures” of Wales' biggest health board.

Mr Davies said it was "vital that confidence in Welsh health boards is restored".

A Welsh Government spokesperson hit back: “The Minister for Health and Social Services took the decision to place BCUHB into special measures in February this year, following serious concerns about governance, finance, performance and quality.

“Following this decision a number of reviews have been undertaken and a new leadership team including an interim chair, chief executive and independent members has been established.

“It is important to support this team to make the necessary changes to the organisation and improve the delivery of care to the people of North Wales.

"An inquiry would divert resources and attention away from this.”

Both Darren Millar, MS for Clwyd West, and Janet Finch-Saunders, MS for Aberconwy, both fully back an independent inquiry.

Mr Millar said: "It is appalling that people in the region have had to put up with a failing health board for more than eight years and it is abundantly clear that the Welsh Government is incapable of driving forward the improvements that patients and their families deserve.

"An inquiry would help to ensure that the NHS can learn from what’s gone wrong and put changes in place to avoid them happening in the future."

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Ms Finch-Saunders said: "Too many of my constituents have been failed by the health board.

“We have seen massive failings in terms of financial management, vascular services, mental health, estate management, and A&E.

“Welsh Conservatives have been requesting a review for years, so I am pleased that the Secretary of State for Wales is calling for an inquiry.

"Such action would be most appropriate."