Tory rebels talk peace

Two Tory rebels who were angered by a government decision about a local hospital today meet Stephen Dorrell, Secretary of State for Health. At least one could be brought back into the fold.

Sir John Gorst, MP for Hendon North, said last month that he was withdrawing cooperation from the Government because of the treatment of a casualty unit at Edgware General Hospital. He will be joined at his meeting with Mr Dorrell by Hugh Dykes, Harrow East MP, who has been rumoured to be considering a similar protest.

Sir John said a firm enough pledge from Mr Dorrell could bring him back into the fold. He was seeing the minister at the request of the Chief Whip, Alastair Goodlad. Mr Dykes said: "I think it will be a positive meeting."