The Labour chairman of the health select committee has broken ranks with the Government over its proposals to abolish Community Health Councils (CHCs).

David Hinchliffe told the Association of Community Health Councils for England and Wales (ACHCEW): "Extending CHCs' role into the primary care sector will fill the gaps in the services currently provided."

He has put down a "compromise" amendment to the Health and Social Care Bill due to be debated in Parliament on Wednesday which would see the retention of the independent health watchdogs.

Elizabeth Manero, chairman of London Healthlink, the umbrella group of the capital's CHCs, said: "This is a spokesperson who represents people in Parliament who is making his break from the Government, so it is very significant.

"It is very important that all MPs think carefully whether they are going to vote with the Government or Mr Hinchliffe."

Meanwhile the National Assembly for Wales announced it will retain CHCs as part of its national plan for health.

Jane Jeffs, chief officer of the Association of Welsh Community Health Councils, said: "We are delighted that the Welsh Assembly has shown such a strong commitment to giving the public a voice in health."