ANNETTE BROOKE MP DEMANDS ACTION TO TACKLE PREMATURE BABY DEATH

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 18th Jul 2008

Mid Dorset and North Poole MP, Annette Brooke, met Paddington Bear and national [Sussex-based] charity Action Medical Research to sign The Tiny Lives Charter and demonstrate his/her support for a 10-year national research strategy to tackle premature birth.

Annette Brooke MP is supporting the charity's STAND UP for Tiny Lives Campaign, and said:

"Twenty five UK babies die each week due to complications arising from premature birth and the impact is devastating for families, yet little is known about why early labour happens; or how to prevent it. I would like to encourage everyone in Mid Dorset and North Poole to visit www.standupfortinylives.org and add their support or personal story."

The STAND UP for Tiny Lives Campaign is being backed by leading scientists and medical researchers, the NCT (formerly known as the National Childbirth Trust), and professional bodies, including the Neonatal Nurse Association, British Association of Perinatal Medicine, Neonatal Society and the European Pre-term Labour Group.

Dr Yolande Harley, Deputy Director of Research at Action Medical Research explains:

"Despite improved care for newborn babies there has been no corresponding progress in reducing the rates of premature birth. Many babies still die and those who survive are at risk of lifelong health conditions."