Doctors cleared following dispute

Two doctors have been cleared of misconduct or any wrongdoing over their work for a primary care trust.

Dr Roger Ford and Dr Les Glass were suspended from the Sunderland Teaching Primary Care Trust (TPCT) in July 2003.

They were accused by the Trust of failing to maintain its corporate responsibility but the doctors strongly refuted the allegations.

The Trust confirmed the allegations had been withdrawn but said there was no admission of liability.

The two doctors have been represented by the British Medical Association since they were suspended from their roles on the TPCT's Professional Executive Committee (PEC).

In a statement, the doctors said: "This has been a long and distressing time for us and our families and we are pleased it is finally over.

"We wish to make it clear that we did not resign from our positions on the PEC during discussions with the Trust and indicated clearly that we intended to continue with our current commitment until April 2004.

'Matter closed'

"However, after discussions with our families, we have decided not to stand for re-selection from April 2004.

"We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from the BMA, our colleagues and patients."

A financial settlement has been made to the doctors and they said they intend to make a contribution from that to a local charity.

A spokesperson for Sunderland TPCT said: "The Trust confirms that the allegations against the doctors have been withdrawn and that they have agreed to stand down from the PEC and not stand for re-appointment in April 2004.

"The financial settlement was made in lieu of notice of their standing down from the PEC (membership of which attracts a payment) and also to forestall the possibility of the TPCT facing the potential costs of the dispute continuing. There is no admission of liability on behalf of the TPCT.

"Our priority in bringing this matter to a conclusion has been to avoid unnecessary and continuing distraction from our key role of improving primary care services for the people of Sunderland.

"Both parties now consider the matter to be closed."