Senior NHS officials back Wessex health chairman

SIR ROBIN Buchanan, beleaguered chairman of Wessex Regional Health Authority, has received backing from senior health officials, writes David Connett.

In a letter to the Health Service Journal, three senior NHS officials from the Wessex region say Sir Robin has 'complete support'. The backing comes after Sir Robin, who is also chairman of the NHS supplies authority, was criticised by the district auditor for his role in the mismanagement of computer projects at the RHA which has resulted in losses of pounds 63m.

The letter is signed by Alastair Service, vice-chairman of Wessex RHA, Professor Jack Howell, chairman of Southampton and South-west Hampshire Health Authority, and Joel Joffe, former chairman of Swindon Health Authority.

Sir Robin is to appear for questioning before the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee on 5 May.