OFFICIALS believe the case against a pathologist accused of serious professional misconduct could continue for six weeks.

Yesterday (Tuesday) the General Medical Council said the hearing against Dr Alan Williams (pictured) was still considering evidence.

"They do have extra dates to complete the hearing until June 3," said a spokesman. "That's when they anticipate having the final decision." Dr Williams, 52, of Plumley, helped to convince a jury at Chester Crown Court in November 1999 that solicitor Sally Clark murdered her two sons.

The mother served nearly four years of a double life sentence before the Court of Appeal freed her in January 2003.

Earlier this year the General Medical Council hearing was told that Dr Williams omitted evidence that eight-week-old Harry could have died from a bacterial infection. The pathologist is also accused of not being competent to analyse eye and brain tissue, making wrong conclusions and failing to refer the samples to the relevant specialists.

His hearing began again on Monday after being adjourned in February. Martin Bell, the former Independent Tatton MP, brought the case and has campaigned on Mrs Clark's behalf.

If found guilty, Dr Williams could be struck off the medical register. Yesterday the General Medical Council said the tribunal would this week hear more evidence before it decided whether to consider imposing sanctions.

"What they'll have to do first is make a decision on the facts of the case and whether it could be serious professional misconduct," said a spokesman.

"If they think it could be the case, then it moves on to the next stage."

The hearing continues.