The BMA has launched a two-month investigation into sexism allegations.
It comes after two of its GP Committee members – Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer and Dr Zoe Norris – last month denounced a ‘sexist culture’ at the heart of the organisation.
In a statement released on its website last week the BMA said it would appoint an independent investigator by May to carry out the investigation, which will take around two months to be completed.
The statement said: ‘The BMA has a stated commitment to creating a culture that is respectful and inclusive of all members and to attracting and retaining members who reflect and represent its membership. We are committed to promoting equal rights and opportunities and supporting diversity.
‘The independent investigation will review the concerns raised following allegations of sexism and sexual harassment by members (and past members) of the BMA’s GP Committee. It will also make recommendations to address gender bias and harassment in the BMA, drawing upon examples of best practice.’
It added: ‘It is important for there to be confidence in the investigation being wholly independent and therefore it will be carried out by an investigator who has not previously been involved with or worked for the BMA in the past.’
BMA chair council Dr Nagpaul previously said that ‘sexist, disrespectful, discriminatory and abusive behaviour will not be tolerated in this association and must be stamped out’.
He said: ‘As chair of council I have been clear that the BMA must become a modern, progressive organisation, reflecting the best of society in the 21st century; all members should have equal opportunity to contribute and progress and must be respected without being subject to any degrading experience based on their gender, race, sexuality, age or any other characteristic.’
The GMC recently launched a pilot programme to train doctors in how to tackle unprofessional behaviour from colleagues.
