§ 47. Colonel WOODCOCKasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that a. member of the medical profession who is struck off the list by the General Medical Council has no redress or appeal against such decision; and whether he is prepared to set up a committee to investigate the procedure of the council in its relation to modern methods and usage of the medical profession regarding the Medical Act of 1858?
§ Major HENNESSY (Lord of the Treasury)I am asked by the Lord President of the Council to say that there is no appeal from the General Medical Council to another Court, but a medical practitioner struck off the register may at any future session bring up his case for revision, and his name may be, and often is, restored to the register. In all inquiries the Medical Council is assisted by a lawyer of great experience and ability. Since its creation in 1858, it has performed the duties entrusted to it without serious criticism, and as at present advised my Noble Friend does not think that sufficient reason has been shown for setting up a committee of inquiry.
§ Colonel WOODCOCKIs the hon. and gallant Member not aware that members of the Bar, solicitors, and members of all professions except the medical profession have an independent court of appeal, and will he take steps in this case to try to get one?
Colonel SINCLAIRIs it not a fact that practitioners struck off the Roll have a right of appeal to the Privy Council, if they care to exercise it?
§ Major HENNESSYI will see that the observations of my hon. Friends are conveyed to my Noble Friend.