GMC statement on BMA's decision to take industrial action

Commenting on the BMA’s decision to take industrial action, the Chief Executive of the General Medical Council Niall Dickson said:

'The decision by the BMA Council to take industrial action is a matter for them. We have no role in relations between doctors and their employers. Our job is to protect patients and provide advice and support for doctors and our guidance is clear – a doctor’s first duty is to his or her patient.

'Doctors must make sure arrangements are in place to care for their patients before the action on the 21 June. As the BMA have made clear patient safety must come first - their actions must not harm patients or put them at risk.

'We recognise that the circumstances facing each doctor will be different – it will therefore be a matter for each individual to assess their own situation and make sure they follow this guidance.'