§ Mr. Loveridgeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will institute a public inquiry into the circumstances leading up to the death of Mr. David Matheson at Essex county hospital on 20 December 1977.
§ Dr. VaughanI was deeply sorry to learn of the tragic death of David Matheson and extend my sympathy to his family in their sad loss. I do not, however, consider that I would be justified in re-opening this case. The complaints against two general practitioners were investigated by Essex family practitioner committee and the right hon. Member for Norwich, North (Mr. Ennals), the former Secretary of State, did not allow Mr. Matheson's appeal against the decision. I have studied the Essex area health authority's report on its investigation into complaints against an ambulance crew and hospital staff and do not dissent from my predecessor's view that the ambulance crew and hospital staff concerned acted promptly and with the patient's best interest in mind.