Some motorists are having to wait for six weeks or more to have their driving licences restored after a consultant at the hospital’s diabetes clinic was suspended.

As the Isle of Man Examiner reported page one on Tuesday, Dr Emran Khan was suspended in July, on full pay, from practising at the hospital but successfully challenged his suspension in the High Court last week.

Since then, a backlog of drivers has built up who need to be signed off as fit to have their driving licences returned.

Health Minister David Ashford confirmed there was a backlog of motorists with insulin-dependent diabetes awaiting sign off from the diabetes clinic to say they are fit to drive.

In a couple of instances, he said that drivers had been forced to wait for a month and a half.

Type one diabetics who need insulin have to declare this to the driver and vehicle licensing centre at Tromode, and their condition is monitored.

Driving licences are issued for a limited period then renewed on a regular basis depending on their condition.

Joanne Clague, chairman of the Manx Diabetic Group, said: ’It’s extremely concerning to learn about these delays.

’Most diabetics need to have their driving licences renewed every three years and any hold up, particularly where it drags on for months, obviously has a huge impact, particularly for those who rely on being able to drive for work.

’We hope this situation can be resolved as soon as possible.’

No question has been raised about Dr Khan’s competence and there is no suggestion he posed any risk to patients.