§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to prevent members 102W of the nursing profession reporting to outside pressure groups matters which should remain confidential to those with immediate responsibility for the patient's care and future prognosis.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeAll nurses have a duty of confidentiality to their patients. This is made clear when they enter the profession and is reinforced throughout their career by their professional bodies and their employing authorities. A breach of confidentiality without lawful excuse such as the patient's consent or an order of court can be a matter for disciplinary action by the nurse's employing authority and, if appropriate, by the General Nursing Council or Central Midwives Board. I believe these safeguards are adequate.