Publication of the independent report on RCHT was long overdue – it was originally promised by late November. This drift further damaged the morale of professional staff, some of whom initially spoke out in support of the suspended chief executive John Watkinson.

The situation is now critical as the Trust needs clear-sighted and concerted local leadership so that it can meet the deadline of December 2010 to be ready for Foundation status. If professional staff doubt that RCHT will achieve this status, some will look to move elsewhere.

Because local leadership does sometimes fail it is right that there are circumstances in which the Government steps in. But this is not what people want to see happen here.

I hope that those who are responsible as Board members or executives for the situation in which Cornwall’s only major hospital now finds itself will reflect on whether over the next 18 months they can help to deliver what people in Cornwall want.

Foundation status would mean that there would be increased local influence over the decisions taken by RCHT. It will only be possible if the Trust meets higher standards first.