England’s largest NHS hospital trust has defended its management after John Cryer MP spoke out about his anger at the failure to appoint a full-time leader.

Mr Cryer, MP for Leyton and Wanstead said bosses had shown “incompetence” on top of failings observed by inspectors earlier this year.

The Trust was placed in special measures in March after Whipps Cross University Hospital in Leytonstone w as given the lowest possible rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Last week, an inspection report at its sister hospital's The Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel and Newham University Hospital identified 65 areas where the trust must urgently improve.

Chief executive, Peter Morris, announced in February he is to step down this summer after six years saying he can no longer provide the long-term leadership commitment needed to move the trust towards foundation status.

John Cryer hit out at this decision – stating the Trust needs strong leadership.

Barts Health released a statement today defending their decision.

A spokesman said: “We recognise how important it is to have strong leadership in place to enable us to make the necessary improvements for our patients.

“That’s exactly why we’ve appointed Alwen Williams as interim chief executive. Alwen brings significant NHS experience as well as local knowledge and will ensure this strong leadership is in place while we recruit to the permanent position.

“All our hospitals will be part of the Trust’s improvement plan in response to special measures, ensuring a consistent approach to the provision and delivery of high quality care.

“We will work with each of our hospitals with the same level of urgency and commitment. We’ve also appointed a dedicated improvement director to make sure these improvements are made as quickly as possible.

“Leadership at all of our sites has already been strengthened with new senior teams in place at each hospital to support their day-to-day running and improvement journey.”

Alwen Williams CBE, a qualified nurse, midwife and NHS manager since 1980, will replace Mr Morris as interim chief executive on June 1.