A doctor who once treated Prime Minister Tony Blair has won his appeal against suspension.

Dr Sivaguranaphan Srirangalingam, known as Dr Sri, 61, of Trimdon Station, in Mr Blair's Sedgefield constituency, was suspended for nine months by the General Medical Council's (GMC) professional conduct committee in May.

He had been found guilty of serious professional misconduct by the GMC in May 1999, after he admitted neglecting his responsibilities towards three patients, between June 1994 and October 1996.

In an appeal to the judicial committee of the Privy Council, it was claimed the suspension was "disproportionate and excessive".

Law Lords announced that conditions should be placed on the doctor and the case sent back to the conduct committee for a quick decision.

They expressed the hope that the suspension should continue "for as short a time as is possible".

Lord Mackay of Clashfern, sitting with Lord Millett and Sir Swinton Thomas, said the original conclusion of the conduct committee was that he should be allowed to practice, subject to conditions.

Allowing the appeal, Lord Mackay said there was no evidence the doctor's competency had deteriorated since then and no suggestion was offered on how suspension could assist in further improving his skills as a doctor.