Andy Burnham gives evidence at Stafford Hospital inquiry

At a public inquiry into failings at Stafford Hospital, former health secretary Andy Burnham defended his decision to propose that Mid Staffordshire NHS Trust be considered for foundation trust status.

Mr Burnham said he was just following official advice. He said he made the decision on the basis of a four-line memo, which did not reflect previous concerns of civil servants.

Mr Burnham told the inquiry that the "shocking events will forever be etched on my mind".

The current public inquiry, which began in November 2010, is looking into the role of regulatory health bodies.