Health Minister Jago will have a private discussion with Wollongong’s asthma-cure doctor Alexander James today. Mr Jago will call at Dr. James’ surgery in Bourke St, North Wollongong, before officially opening Wollongong Hospital’s $4 million new Services Building. Meanwhile, the University of N.S.W. has offered to undertake a three-year study of Dr James’ methods if it is financed. Dean of the University’s Faculty of Medicine, Mr F.F. Rundle, estimated the study would cost $75,000. He made the offer after a request from the Wollongong Asthma Action Society.

Mr Rundle told the society by letter he would have to appoint ad hoc staff to undertake the study. The finance would cover a staff of medical specialists and clerical personnel, plus expenses. Mr Rundle said the faculty could begin the study as soon as finance was available. The society said in a statement yesterday it was very encouraged by the university’s offer. But the society was “put out” because it was not invited to today’s meeting between Mr Jago and Dr James.

It was hoped the meeting resulted in an asthma clinic being established, using Dr James’ methods.“The hopes of thousands of asthma sufferers throughout Australia have been raised – we hope not in vain.” a society spokesman said. Mr Jago will issue a Press statement after today’s meeting. The Wollongong doctor has been the central figure in a battle by South Coast and Sydney people to have his asthma-cure methods accepted by the National Medical Research Council.

Mr Jago will visit St Francis’ Home for the Aged in Wollongong, and officially open the new hospital building at 2.30pm.