DOCTORS REFORM SOCIETY

Media Release

Wednesday, 8 February 2006

WHO SHOULD JUDGE DRUG SAFETY, THE TGA OR TONY ABBOTT?

“The debate on RU486 should be about who decides on drug safety, not on whether or not the drug is safe,” said Dr Tim Woodruff, President, Doctors Reform Society

“A media debate on safety is appropriate but ultimately the decision on drug safety should be left to an independent panel of experts who can look at the evidence without recourse to their own ethical beliefs,” said Dr Woodruff.

“Australians have already passed legislation that permits abortion under certain circumstances,” said Dr Woodruff. “The Health Minister’s capacity to analyse the complicated and extensive research on drug safety is miniscule compared to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).”

“If further evidence emerges that establishes RU486 is more dangerous than available alternatives then the TGA will reassess its approval as it has with other drugs,” said Dr Woodruff.  “It’s time now for the Minister to stop attempting to impose his ethical beliefs on Australians under the smokescreen of the safety issue which he undoubtably knows is beyond his area of expertise.”

Dr Tim Woodruff

President

Doctors Reform Society

Doctors Reform Society