Press Release

The Government response to the Tooke report shows some progress, but NHS:MEE crucial and more urgency needed

The Royal College of Physicians notes the generally positive reaction of the Government to the excellent recommendations by Sir John Tooke. In particular the clarification of the regulatory arrangements, through the assimilation of the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board under the General Medical Council, has long been advocated by the College.

Professor Ian Gilmore, President of the Royal College of Physicians, said “While welcoming the fact that the Secretary of State supports many of the recommendations without reservation, nevertheless, we believe that a great deal hinges on the practical development of the concept of Medical Education for England (NHS:MEE) recommended by Sir John. The governance arrangements must reflect a national body that is led by the profession with sufficient influence on the planning and resources designated for medical training purposes. We remain strongly of the view that such a body is essential to ensure the delivery of the other important recommendations.”

He added “The profession remains extremely anxious about resolving the considerable residual issues from the disaster of the implementation of MMC and MTAS in 2007.  There is an impatience to move on with these crucial Inquiry recommendations, some of which are now subject to further process.  All are agreed that through these changes, the ultimate goal is to improve standards of patient care.  The College will continue to press for urgent implementation to achieve this.”

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