Setting aside any question of blame and liability, the tragic case of young Harry Newton raises a basic and perhaps naive question.

Why oh why has it taken 13 years to reach the conclusion announced this week?

Lyndon and Jacky Newton have been fighting for justice ever since their wonderful son Harry was born with severe spastic cerebral palsy. They claim it was as a result of poor treatment given by staff at Dryburn Hospital, in Durham, where the youngster was born. The County Durham and Darlington Health Authority denied liability throughout.

Yet three weeks before the case was due to go to trial, Mr Justice Simon approved a massive £1.5 million compensation deal.

The successor health authority says that although liability has not been admitted they are pleased that a settlement has been reached without the need for the matter to go to trial. Why?

The family are rightly full of praise for their specialist solicito,r who has also fought tirelessly for Harry. The Newtons, who have had to battle for everything Harry has needed, say that although it is not the outcome they wanted at least it is now at an end. The case also highlights the love and support of the couple's family.

There's no doubt the case was particularly difficult because of the complex medical issues proving liability - but once again why has it taken so many years?

Why should the Newton's have had to face such a long struggle and suffer many setbacks? Had they not enough to contend with?

What makes things worse in some ways is the fact that after all the years of heartbreak it was an out of court settlement.

The couple add that they now hope they can get on with their lives and move forward. So do we.

Mr Justice Simon described Harry as a bright and personable young man, adding that Harry has good social skills and a keen sense of humour, and he hopes the settlement will help make the life of this engaging boy as happy and fulfilled as possible.

So do we your honour.