A BEXLEY MP is backing calls for all newborn babies to be vaccinated against TB and wants the borough included in any new vaccination programme.

David Evennett, who represents Bexleyheath and Crayford, has raised the issue with health professionals several times since the universal BGC vaccination for children was dropped in 2005.

The latest proposal is contained in a consultation document launched by London Health Programmes in the wake of the release of figures showing London now has one of the worst TB rates in Britain and in western Europe.

In the past, Mr Evennett has raised the issue with Bexley Care Trust, the specialist TB team at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich and written to the Department of Health.

Now he plans to discuss the issue with the London Health Forum later this month.

He said: “I believe it is vital all children are vaccinated against tuberculosis, especially as reports suggest instances of the disease are rising.

“I will continue to press hard on this issue.”