Streeting's announcement followed talks with families and Leeds East MP Richard Burgon this week.

Burgon posted on social media on Monday: ‘Today I accompanied bereaved Leeds families to the meeting with @wesstreeting about the Leeds Maternity Inquiry and I supported the Leeds families' powerful case that the Inquiry would be best served by appointing independent and experienced senior midwife Donna Ockenden as Chair.'

Streeting responded: ‘I will reflect carefully on the representations made to me by the families today, particularly about the appointment of a chair to the inquiry.

‘I will now have discussions with Donna Ockenden and others about the next steps and will be able to provide an update, including about the chair, in a week's time.

‘I will keep families updated over the course of the week and remain committed to ensuring that this inquiry is thorough, independent and delivers the truth the families deserve.'

Ockenden has said she stands ready to lead the review.