committee because he is the subject of a Police investigation, the committee's chairman confirmed last night.

"As long as this investigation is going on then Dr. Bridgewater's appointment is not appropriate,'' Mr. Alastair Macdonald said. "I've talked with Dr.

Bridgewater and he understands that.'' It is understood the Police fraud squad investigation, which began in March last year, has been completed and that a file has been sent to the Attorney General's Chambers for consideration.

The investigation was launched after concerns about billings were raised by insurance companies.

Mr. Macdonald said that once the Police matter was resolved he looked forward to Dr. Bridgewater's help.

"My feeling is that Dr. Bridgewater has a lot to offer the country, but at this point with the investigation he agrees that he should step back.

"He is a courageous man who has overcome a drug problem and who has stayed drug free. We've spoken and he wants to do what's good for the community. He just wants to get on with the rest of his life.'' Mr. Macdonald said he expected the interim National Drug Authority committee to be announced within the next few weeks.