AN independent inquiry has been launched into the Richard Neale case, the consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician who worked in hospitals in the North East and elsewhere, who was struck off the medical register after patients complained about his performance.

I am chairing the inquiry and wish to talk to patients and staff who have any information. We already have patients engaged in the process and we have had informal meetings in York and Northallerton with patients and staff.

But there is some misunderstanding about the role of the inquiry, so let me emphasise some important points.

First, we want to hear from private patients as well as NHS patients of Mr Neale.

Secondly, we will be looking into questions such as why were favourable references given to Mr Neale; how his employment was terminated and why was the fact that he was struck off in Canada not acted on?

Thirdly, the High Court supported a private inquiry, so our hearings will be held in private.

We are determined to make this a rigorous investigation of the facts and make recommendations to the secretary of state which we hope will enable poorly performing doctors to be identified sooner.

Patients have told us their motives for coming forward are to ensure future patients should feel reassured that history cannot be repeated. We hope to start our hearings this spring. Where it may be helpful, legal representation paid for out of public funds is available.

Contact the inquiry team by ringing 020 972 2400.

Suzan Matthews QC,

Inquiry chairman, 6th floor, Hannibal House, Elephant and Castle, London, SE1 6TE.

Updated: 11:30 Friday, January 24, 2003