If they think MMR needs a shot in the arm, try this

Sunday Mail, Peter Hitchens Sept 2, 2007

THE MMR zealots are trying to spread a new panic about measles by greatly overstating its dangers. But if they really believe their own propaganda, and total immunisation is so urgently needed, may I suggest a couple of measures that should get the coverage up?

One, offer the single measles vaccine on the NHS, immediately. Two, get Gordon Brown and Anthony Blair to do as they have never done and say publicly on the record that their own children have had the MMRjab.

Meanwhile, I am delighted to report that Dr Jayne Donegan, a decent and conscientious GP publicly denounced by an officious ex-Communist judge after she gave evidence for parents who objected to MMR, has been cleared by the General Medical Council of charges that she gave false or misleading impres­sions of research, quoted selectively and allowed her views to override her duty to the court.

The charges, in my view, should never have been brought. Dr Donegan's vindication confirms my view and weakens the cause of those who would persecute honest, thoughtful doctors who challenge orthodoxy.