STONE MP Bill Cash has been stunned by reports that a former hospital chief executive could be in line for up to £1.5 million in NHS payouts.

It has emerged that Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust could be about to give former Stafford Hospital boss Martin Yeates at least £400,000 following his resignation earlier this month.

It is reported that he would also collect a £65,000 annual pension worth more than £1 million.

Mr Yeates was suspended as chief executive on March 3.

Mr Cash said: "I cannot believe this is happening."

Hospital trust chairman David Stone said an independent report on Mr Yeates had been presented to the trust board.