Help for witnesses - Giving evidence

When you are called to give evidence, a MPTS staff member will take you to the hearing room and show you to the witness desk.  

A staff member will ask you whether you wish to take a religious oath on a holy book of your choosing, or to make an affirmation as to the truth of your evidence. The chairman of the panel will then introduce themselves and the rest of the panel to you. When answering questions, you should speak clearly and slowly into the microphone on the witness desk so that all parties can hear your evidence.

Examination and cross-examination

You will be asked questions by the GMC barrister on the basis of your witness statement. In addition to the panel, the doctor or their legal representative may also ask you questions. You will not be able to have the witness statement with you when you give evidence, but you can read through it while you are in the witness room. While you are giving your evidence, you may be shown other documents referred to by the barrister.  

Take your time to read each document carefully.

Adjournments

The hearing may have to adjourn from time to time, either for lunch or at the end of each day, if the hearing lasts for more than one day.  

The panel may also adjourn for a longer period to obtain additional evidence, in case of illness, or because it has overrun the days allotted to it. It is extremely important to note that witnesses must not talk to anyone about the case or about their evidence during any adjournment. This includes anyone who is involved with the case as well as any friends or family. If you do not adhere to this rule, it could have serious repercussions for the outcome of the hearing.