LETTER : Health masons

Sir: The debate concerning openness, freemasonry, the police and the judiciary (report, 19 December) should not be confined to these groups.

The suspicion exists in medical circles that the network of Freemasonry exerts undue influence in the affairs of the Health Service. The suspicion alone could impair proper professional relationships, which ultimately impact on patient care.

Do the interests of the masonic brotherhood obscure best advice? If change is needed to improve treatment, will a brother be discomfited by it?

An open, accessible Health Service register needs to be set up of all Freemasons pursuing advancement in the Health Service and of those in established positions of responsibility.

C R RAYNER MS FRCS

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Birmingham