Responding to press reports that paramedics are being refused permission to clean ambulances between calls Shadow Health Secretary Margaret Curran said:

“I am deeply concerned to hear reports that patients are being transported to and from hospital in dirty ambulances. This is completely unacceptable and must stop.

“The Scottish Government failed in its response to C. difficile at the Vale of Leven Hospital and we all saw the tragic consequences. There can be no room for complacency about infection.

“Ambulance personnel are to right point out that the fight against superbugs doesn’t stop at the hospital door and they must be given enough time to properly clean their vehicles between calls.

“I will be raising this issue with Nicola Sturgeon as a matter of utmost priority. Ministers must ensure that journeys to and from hospital in NHS vehicles are as free from infection as is humanly possible.”