B.M.A. BRANCH PROTESTS

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28210, 23 February 1957, Page 6

B.M.A. BRANCH PROTESTS

Minister’s Speech At Conference (New Zealand Press Association) HASTINGS, February 22. The speech by the Minister of Health (Mr J. A. Hanan) at the biennial conference of the British Medical Association in Wellington was “an improper speech to be made on such an occasion,’’ says a statement today by the Hawke’s Bay division of the association which has forwarded a protest to its central body. “The speech as reported,” says the statement, “would seem to be a vilification of the medical profession of this country by innuendo. “It is felt that the impression has been given that the doctors in general of this country are lacking in care and attention to their patients, are guilty of wasteful prescribing, and are showing a lack of interest in the public welfare,” adds the statement. “It is unfortunate that the Minister made no mention of the

medical disciplinary committee which was set up some years ago after urgent and strenuous representations to the Government by the doctors themselves.

“This committee is empowered to investigate, and to deal with any irregularities reported by the Department of Health.

“The division has always sought to maintain good relations with the Government in the interests of the patients, and considers that speeches of this nature contribute nothing but harm,” concluded the statement.