22 October 2004
An independent investigation into alleged irregularities at St George's Healthcare NHS Trust has concluded that data on the number of cancelled operations were improperly altered and hospitality expenses were inappropriately claimed.
The investigation, commissioned by the South West London Strategic Health Authority, found that two of the six allegations made by the trust's former director of finance, Ian Perkin, were proven.
A third, relating to a former member of staff, should be forwarded to the NHS Counter Fraud and Security Management Service for consideration, the report said.
The investigation came about after Perkin sued for unfair dismissal following his sacking from the trust. He claimed he had lost his job because he had raised the alarm after hospital cancellation data were doctored to make them more favourable.
The employment tribunal, which gave its verdict in February, found that he had been unfairly dismissed but rejected his claim that he was sacked for whistle-blowing.
Perkin, whose appeal against the judgment was rejected in August, said he would now seek to overturn the ruling. 'There is evidence in the report that would clearly have been of benefit to me when I was in court,' he said.
'I always knew that the truth could not be hidden for ever and I am glad I have submitted an appeal application to the Court of Appeal.'
Julie Dent, chief executive of South West London SHA, said: 'Issues raised by Mr Perkin about management processes at St George's have now been thoroughly investigated. We will work with the trust to confirm that all relevant actions relating to the report's recommendations have been taken.'
PFoct2004
