John Watkinson's solicitor, Rachel Harrap of Edwin Coe LLP, said her client had been vindicated by the ruling.

But, she added, it also clearly demonstrated that employment tribunals were prepared to back whistleblowers in the workplace.

"We welcome the tribunal's judgement in favour of our client John Watkinson that he was unfairly dismissed.

"This was a complex case with significant political overtones bringing to the fore not only issues of fair treatment and due process, but also those that touch on the very heart of NHS governance.

"At the essence of this case was the probity and handling of a decision to transfer local cancer services out of Cornwall at the expense of and disregard to Mr Watkinson's long-term career and reputation and whose efforts to pursue correct procedure were thwarted at every turn.

"In the tribunal finding that his 'dismissal flew in the face of any concept of fairness, whether considering the dismissal of any employee, be he the most senior or the most junior'.

"Mr Watkinson has been vindicated not only by virtue of the judgement but also by the fact that the concerns he foretold in relation to the transfer of (Upper GI) cancer services have since been borne out by the Secretary of State for Health's referral on the issue. This case also signals a major and overdue victory for the whistleblower within UK workplace law.

"The decision to uphold Mr Watkinson's claim for unfair dismissal on the grounds of his protected disclosure sends a warning shot to business and public sector organisations alike on the importance of understanding and treating respectfully whistleblowing issues and ensuring policies and practices in place are supported by the management culture.

"This case should be a timely reminder of the reputational and financial costs of failing to instil such practice."