BOTH the Ambulance Service and the General Hospital are under police investigation concerning two separate deaths over Christmas.

It is understood that, although it has been too early to determine the exact causes of death, both cases bring into question the level of care given to the patients.

Inquests and internal investigations have also been launched.Linda Le Meur (48) died on Christmas Day while a patient in the Belcroute Ward of the General Hospital.

A number of members of staff from the ward have already been questioned by investigating officers and another is to be seen by the police on return from holiday.David Murray (52) died on 29 December while under the care of the Ambulance Service.

The inquests on Mrs Le Meur, of Undercliffe Road, and Mr Murray, of Clos St André, were both opened and adjourned by Deputy Viscount Peter de Gruchy yesterday afternoon.Health president Senator Stuart Syvret would not comment on any of the circumstances surrounding the deaths but said: ‘I am aware of both incidents and they are the subject of internal, external and police inquiries and at this stage I cannot make a comment.’When asked about the level of care the patients received, he added: ‘I do not believe that one can start making this kind of comment at this stage because it could prejudice the inquiries.’Both inquests were adjourned until a date could be fixed to close them after the criminal investigations were complete.The States police this morning issued a statement confirming their involvement in the two cases.Det insp Bob Bonney added that reports in both cases would be submitted to the Attorney General and the Deputy Viscount.