Members in pathology are extremely concerned that laboratory management is compromising the quality and safety of its service by appointing technicians to fill a scientist vacancy. Most teaching hospitals value their professional reputations and patient safety too much to go down this path. Where it has been attempted, laboratories are normally successfully challenged by our members and often medical staff as well who want to see pathology services remain ethical and safe. A meeting of members will be held on Wednesday 4 February at 12.30 pm to discuss our response to this situation.