HC Deb 21 May 2003 vol 405 cc859-60W
Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what procedures should be followed if an anaesthetist disagrees with a consultant surgeon regarding the treatment of a patient under their care. [113466]

Mr. Hutton

Relationships between surgeons and anaesthetists are governed by guidance set out by the General Medical Council, on professional working between all clinicians. The guidance 'Good Medical Practice', Third Edition May 2001, outlines the procedures clinicians should follow if they feel another health care professional may be putting a patient at risk.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to investigate complaints made about procedures at Oldchurch hospital, following the resignation of a locum consultant surgeon at Oldchurch hospital in Romford; what discussions he has held with(a) the Barking, Havering and Redbridge NHS trusts and (b) the Clinical Director at Oldchurch hospital on the matter; and if he will make a statement. [113467]

Mr. Hutton

I have no plans to investigate these complaints. This is an internal matter for Barking, Havering and Redbridge hospitals national health service trust.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will ensure the speedy appointment of a new locum consultant surgeon at Oldchurch hospital in Romford. [113470]

Mr. Hutton

This is an internal matter for Barking, Havering and Redbridge hospitals national health service trust.