Hospital bosses in south Essex were today on tenterhooks as the future of controversial foundation trusts went back into the melting pot.
Basildon Hospital has already applied to become one of the first foundation hospitals in the country - giving it greater financial freedom while still part of the NHS.
Yesterday, MPs voted for the scheme by a 17-vote majority, but it was rejected by the Lords last night.
MPs then took another vote in the early hours of this morning, sending the proposals back to the Lords with a majority of 41.
Opponents claim foundation status will lead to a two-tier system.
Basildon and Thurrock NHS Trust was one of the first hospitals invited to apply for the status and its consultation process will finish on November 30.
Southend Hospital, recently awarded the top three stars in the national hospital league tables, has also expressed an interest in becoming a foundation trust.
Published Thursday November 20, 2003
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