Southend's MP raised concerns over operations being rationed, calling for a parliamentary debate on the issue. 

Speaking at the House of Commons yesterday, David Amess admitted he was shocked to hear that Southend CCG is rationing some operation. 

It was akcnowledged that blanket restrictions on effective treatments are unacceptable.

The MP said: "Will my right hon. Friend find time for a debate on clinical commissioning groups restricting access to treatments formally approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, NHS England and other health authorities?

"I was shocked to learn that Southend CCG is restricting cataract, hernia and knee and hip replacement operations by putting them on a list of procedures of limited proven value."

Andrea Leadsom, Minister of State at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, said: "I am very sorry to hear of this situation, but as my hon. Friend will know, blanket restrictions on effective treatments are unacceptable.

"NHS England should take action if there is evidence of rationing of care, and if the CCG is breaching its statutory responsibility to provide services to the local population.

"He may like to seek an Adjournment debate so that he can raise this matter directly with a Health Minister."