South West Surrey MP Jeremy Hunt today asked Caroline Flint, the Health Minister for the South East, to take responsibility for the massive budget deficits facing Surrey's NHS. Jeremy called on Ms Flint to stop blaming local health bosses for the financial problems for which he believes the Government is responsible.However Ms Flint refused to do so, saying that health chiefs had been “overspending” for many years in Surrey and were entirely to blame. The heated exchange took place on the floor of the House of Commons during Health Questions which was also attended by Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt.Speaking after the debate, Jeremy said: “Our health ministers have got a severe case of blame syndrome and are refusing to take responsibility for the problems which are currently facing Surrey’s hospitals. “Severe cuts are being made and lives will be put at risk. The fact of the matter is that a biased health funding formula is the route cause of the crisis but the Government refuses to accept responsibility.”During the exchange on the floor of the House of Commons with Caroline Flint, Jeremy also made reference to the level of support expressed for Royal Surrey County Hospital at the public meeting which took place last Thursday at the University of Surrey. The event itself was organised by Jeremy in conjunction with Anne Milton MP.