HEALTH bosses have said they will investigate claims midwives were told not to march against the closure of Harwich and Clacton maternity units.

The coastal units have been temporarily closed by Colchester Hospital University Foundation Trust until at least June so midwives can cover shortages in Colchester.

But at a heated Health Forum meeting on Wednesday, it was alleged midwives at the units had been told if they spoke out against the closures, they would be disciplined.

Resident John Tipple said midwives were frightened to speak out.

He said: “The midwives did not march and were told if you speak out you will be disciplined.”

Amanda Hallums, the trust’s divisional director of women’s and children’s services, said she would be looking into the claims.