DARLINGTON MP Alan Milburn was quizzed by the public yesterday when he appeared on Radio Four's Any Questions?

The former Health Secretary appeared on the show, which was hosted by Jonathan Dimbleby at Durham School last night.

It came in the same week that the future of the NHS became a political football between New Labour and the Conservatives.

Durham School's senior master, Rodney Thomas, said: "It was a privilege to host such a prestigious radio show from the school.

"There were some very interesting guests at a very important time for the country and some very thought-provoking questions.

"We contacted the producers some years ago to suggest broadcasting from Durham School and, of course, we were delighted when they got in touch and asked us if we still wanted to do it."

Mr Milburn debated a range of issues with fellow panellists.

They included leader of the Scottish National party John Swinney, Skipton and Ripon MP David Curry and writer and broadcaster Ann Leslie, who is chief foreign correspondent with the Daily Mail.