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By Karen
Hambridge, Coventry Evening Telegraph
Walsgrave chiefs have adjourned a hearing on allegations
of bullying by heart consultant Raj Mattu so he can
strengthen his defence.
The hearing yesterday was halted so the doctor can obtain
witness statements.
It was felt only fair to allow the cardiologist time to
approach those who have given evidence to the trust
investigators.
His representative, Stephen Campion, from the Hospital
Consultants and Specialists Association, has called for
his reinstatement while this takes place.
Dr Mike Harrison, who has been heading the probe for
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust,
is expected to respond on this soon.
Mr Campion said he had been disappointed that the matter
was no nearer resolution.
“Regrettably, the trust was unable to complete its
investigation yesterday.
“While Dr Mattu was fully prepared to rebut the
conflicting and anecdotal allegations being made, the
investigating panel adjourned the hearing for Dr Mattu to
obtain written statements in his defence.
“In the meantime, Dr Mattu is awaiting confirmation
or otherwise that his suspension from duty will be lifted.”
This was the first opportunity Dr Mattu had been given to
answer the allegations against him since he was told to
leave the hospital premises on February 21.
It was also the first time Dr Mattu had been made aware
of who the trust had gained statements from in its
evidence for the inquiry, which centres on a complaint
that he oppressed a junior colleague who now no longer
works at the hospital.
Mr Campion said he and the cardiologist would be
considering who they would approach with a view to
gaining statements.
