Prof Sir Michael Rawlins could be set to extend his tenure as chairman of NICE, with the government prepared to bend the rules to allow him to stay on.

Rawlins was due to step down from the role in 2009, as the position can only be held for a maximum of 10 years.

But the Department of Health and the Public Appointments Commission have now invoked a clause that could allow him to serve for another two years.

Rawlins himself had expected to leave, but admitted that continuity was important for NICE during such a time of transformation.

He said: "Because of the significant change the organisation is going through, the Commission has agreed a waiver. I will re-apply, and then they can decide if I'm still the best man for the job."

The position will be advertised to other potential candidates in The Sunday Times on 7 December.

However, when Rawlins re-applied for the job five years ago, as was required by the rules of the Public Appointments Commission, there were no other applicants. Sources say all other candidates withdrew their applications on hearing he would be again stepping up for the role.

pharmafocus@wiley.com