COLCHESTER’S MP has defended voting against an amendment to a trade bill saying the “the NHS is not, and will never be, for sale”.

Ministers were debating how the UK will trade with other countries once it leaves the EU.

Concerns were raised politicians in Westminster would be unable to prevent the Government reneging on commitments to protect the NHS and maintain animal welfare and food standards under the terms of the Trade Bill.

But the Government stressed UK law offers protections and any changes would have to come before Parliament.

Labour had put forward changes which it said would have barred any deal which “undermines or restricts” a comprehensive public-funded health service, free at the point of delivery.

But it was voted down with Colchester MP Will Quince voting against it.

Colchester Council leader Mark Cory and Colchester Labour have since written to Mr Quince questioning the decision.

In Mr Cory’s letter he said: “I understand, that as a minister in government, you are whipped to support the party line.

“However, representing Colchester borough, my Cabinet and I are concerned that our excellent local NHS services could be put at risk due to rising costs or interference through powerful international trading negotiations.”

But Mr Quince said there had been “misunderstanding” around the legislation. He said: “Let me start by clarifying outright that the NHS is not, and will never be, for sale. Indeed, this has been repeatedly made clear by the Government and ministers.

“The main function of the trade bill is to transfer trade agreements we already have with the EU into UK law, and the NHS is not mentioned in the legislation.

“This bill is, of course, separate from the UK Government’s future trade agreements programme, and should be treated as such.

“The amendments tabled by the opposition were unnecessary.”