Eye surgeon agrees to HIV checks

A CONSULTANT ophthalmic surgeon alleged to have carried out scores of operations while infected with the Aids virus yesterday denied that he knowingly put patients at risk.

In a statement issued through Bexley Health Authority, Peter Curran, 45, said: 'Like any doctor, I am familiar with all the official guidelines relating to the control of infection in medical practice.

'In 20 years of practice I have never knowingly by act or omission exposed any patient to any needless risk.'

Mr Curran has agreed that before returning to work at Queen Mary's hospital, Sidcup, Kent, he will undergo checks to see if he is HIV positive and get 'satisfactory health clearance'.

He went on leave from the hospital last week and was reported to be away from his home in Kennington, south London.

Yesterday's statement does not answer the question of whether Mr Curran is infected with the Aids virus. It emphasised that there would be no more press statements until his health status had been clarified.

The health authority said reports suggesting that Mr Curran had 'disappeared' were misleading.

The surgeon had agreed to remain on special leave for at least another month because of the intense media coverage. It was understood he planned to spend time abroad.