PRIVATISATION is the “real cause” of the outbreak of listeria in British hospitals, trade unionists told the Star yesterday.

Five people are thought to have died from contracting listeria after eating pre-packed sandwiches and salads at NHS hospitals.

The food had been made by the Good Food Chain, a company constructed to supply food to 43 NHS Trusts.

As a result of the deaths, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has ordered a “root-and-branch” review of hospital food provision.

However, GMB regional organiser Helen O’Connor told the Star that “it is doubtful that this review will deal with the real cause of deteriorating hospital standards – privatisation.

“The privatisation of the NHS is a failure on every level.”

The GMB has also expressed fears that the plans of agency employer Mitie to to make their subcontracted cleaners serve food to patients at St George’s Hospital, London, poses a “serious cross-contamination risk” to both patients and NHS workers.