To ask the Secretary of State for Health what correspondence her Department has had with (a) members of the public and (b) the General Medical Council (GMC) regarding the lack of a right of appeal by patients against decisions made by GMC case examiners following complaints against doctors. (54095)

In the nine months to 22 May 2006, 13 items of correspondence relating to this issue were received from members of the public.

The Chief Medical Officer has undertaken a review of matters relating to medical regulation which will address this issue. A statement will be made shortly.