There is almost no chance of an asthma clinic for tests on Dr Alexander James' treatment methods being established at Wollongong Hospital.
Only a mellowing of attitudes by Dr James and senior medical staff at the hospital could reverse the situation.
Senior medical staff have made it clear they do not want an asthma clinic for the exclusive use of Dr James' methods.
They will accept the use of Dr James' methods if other methods are also permitted.
But Dr James refuses this condition. He would refuse to work in a clinic under such conditions.
Dr James is still optimistic. Dr James said the decision, however, depended on the hospital's board of directors, "with Mr Jago's personal recommendation."
Board deputy chairman Mr T. Wren said the board would consider the matter on February 11.
Mr Jago's private secretary yesterday made it clear the Minister was leaving the decision to the board.
Mr M. W. J. Hough M.L.A., said yesterday study of the treatment should be given a "fair go."
"Medical people who could not offer the hope Dr James offered, should leave him alone, and let the public make its own assessment", he said.
Labor candidate for Wollongong, Mr E. Ramsay, said the Minister for Health's statement about an asthma clinic at Wollongong Hospital boiled down to nothing.
"The prime need is for Dr James to be given the opportunity, in a clinic under his own control and without political strings attached, to train other doctors in his methods." he said.