§ 33. Sir A. V. Harveyasked the Minister of Health if he will hold an inquiry into the dispute between Dr. Ferguson and the Manchester Regional Hospital Board over an alleged breach of contract.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonNo, Sir.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyI am unable to thank the right hon. Gentleman for that rather dusty reply. Is he aware that this matter has been going on for ten years and that Dr. Ferguson is in some respects being persecuted? Would he consider a public inquiry so that Dr. Ferguson's career can be satisfied and he can render service to the country?
§ Mr. RobinsonI know that this difficulty has been going on for a long time. It appears that Dr. Ferguson's grievances arise from unsatisfactory personal relationships with the consultant radiologist responsible for the administration of the department. However, I understand that, following the withdrawal of the writ which Dr. Ferguson issued, the Manchester Regional Hospital Board has invited him to discuss his grievances with its full consultant services committee; I very much hope that he will accept this invitation.