THE case for an inquiry into the Richard Neale scandal is clear cut. Indeed, it is difficult to see why we have had to wait a year since the gynaecologist was struck off for the investigation to be ordered.

We realise the process of public administration is laboured, but we wonder why it should be so. Nevertheless, the inquiry is to be welcomed.

We need to find answers to the many serious questions raised by the catalogue of despair which has surrounded Mr Neale.

How was a surgeon with a chequered history, with persistent doubts over his conduct, and struck off in Canada, able to find work in this country?

And with growing evidence of his poor performance at The Friarage Hospital, why was he still given a good reference and a £100,000 pay-off?

It is vital that the health service learns from its mistakes to ensure it can never again be blighted in such a way.

The whole scandal has raised doubts and uncertainties over the confidence we ought to have in the health service.

It is for that very reason this inquiry has to be held in public, as most of Mr Neale's victims want.

Health Secretary Alan Milburn must accede to their wishes.

He has already been defeated in the courts in his bid to have the inquiry into Harold Shipman held in private.

He will be wise not to risk further legal action on this occasion