Department of Health

Press Release

21 September 2000

Inquiry into Shipman crimes will be held in public

A public inquiry will be held into the issues surrounding the crimes committed by Manchester GP Harold Shipman, the health secretary Alan Milburn confirmed today. Subject to parliament's agreement, the inquiry will be held under the 1921 Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act. This gives the chairman the legal powers to call up any witnesses and to see any necessary documents.

The chairman for the inquiry will be announced at a later date. Harold Shipman from Hyde in Greater Manchester was found guilty on January 31 of 15 charges of murder and of forging the will of one of his patients.