Written question asked by Tim Loughton (Conservative) on Wednesday, 12 October 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 14 October 2005. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Friday, 21 October 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Expert Witnesses

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions she has had with the Royal College of Paediatricians about establishing an accreditation scheme for expert witnesses; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: The former Secretary of State for Health, my right hon. Friend John Reid, met with the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) in October 2004, when I understand the subject of the supply and quality of medical expert witnesses was discussed. I expect to meet with the president of the RCPCH on 14 November to discuss a range of issues, during which this subject may arise. I am also awaiting the imminent arrival of the Chief Medical Officer's report on the supply and quality of medical expert witnesses. I anticipate his report will address the issues concerning an accreditation scheme, and suggest a way forward.

Secondary information