Royal Courts of Justice
Strand
London WC2
B E F O R E:
MR JUSTICE SULLIVAN
THE QUEEN ON THE APPLICATION OF THE GENERAL MEDICAL COUNCIL
(CLAIMANT)
-v-
BALUCHI
(DEFENDANT)
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MISS K GALLAFENT (instructed by GMC Legal In House Legal Team) appeared on behalf of the CLAIMANT
The DEFENDANT did not appear and was not represented
J U D G M E N T
1. MR JUSTICE SULLIVAN: I have read the particulars of claim referred to in the claim form and, in the light of matters set out therein, and in particular in the light of the defendant’s plea of guilty and sentence of imprisonment, it is plain that the interim order of suspension ought to be extended for a further period. Given the lengthy period of imprisonment which has been imposed upon the defendant, it might be thought that the period is somewhat academic in any event, but I am satisfied that it is certainly not disproportionate in any way to extend it for another year until 3rd March 2006, even though the matter has been listed for hearing on 29th March 2005.
2. The fact that the defendant is being detained may result in all sorts of practical difficulties, which may mean that the hearing on 29th March 2005 may not be able to proceed, and the claimant ought to be given a reasonable period in which to make alternative arrangements if that proves to be the case. So that is the basis upon which I think that 12 months is perfectly reasonable on the facts of this case. There can be no doubt that an interim order ought to be extended on the facts here.
3. MISS GALLAFENT: I am very grateful.
4. MR JUSTICE SULLIVAN: Thank you very much indeed.