OPHTHALMIC LASER TREATMENT

Early day motion 1494, tabled 1 July 2003 by Frank Cook (Labour). Signed by 59 members.

That this House recognises the real advances gained in recent years in the field of ophthalmic surgery; acknowledges the remarkable gains made in this field of remedial treatment by the development of fine laser application; appreciates fully that the adoption of these corrective measures is infinitely more to do with health and safety than with cosmetology; registers admiration for those medical practitioners who have taken the time and trouble to gain proper qualifications and experience before offering their service to their patients, but expresses grave concern that some agencies and individuals regard this field of activity as an opportunity for the Friday afternoon catch-crop approach to collect easy cash without exercising proper and dutiful concern for the ongoing welfare of their clientele; and therefore urges Her Majesty's Government and the BMA together with the Royal College of Ophthalmology to introduce, as a matter of urgency, specific measures requiring practitioners in this field of treatment to undertake approved programmes of formal training and accreditation, gain their qualification, acquire a licence to practise, register formally in an approved manner and submit themselves to a discipline of approved professional monitoring and review.

Signatures by party: Labour 34, Liberal Democrat 15, Conservative 3, Plaid Cymru 3, DUP 2, Independent Ulster Unionist 2.