By Emma Runswick

Pandemic Review

BMA are holding a Lessons Learnt review with a focus on the medical profession and NHS. More than 500 members have already contributed evidence. The Chair of Council has included more information in emails to members.

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Health and Social Care Bill

BMA has been lobbying on the Health and Social Care bill, and had some success at committee stage. It is back on the floor of the House of Commons on Monday.

The BMA has produced an activism pack to write to your MP about the most important issues

There is a demonstration outside parliament on Monday 5pm on 22 November at Richmond Terrace, Westminster.

IMG Affiliate Membership

BMA will be creating a support package for International colleagues looking to come to the UK. We argue this must include visa advice, contract checking and support, alongside learning materials. We also argue that only full membership should exist in the UK – no two tiers.

Member Support Review

In 2018, BMA performed a major review of member services. We are now considering closing the loop on this, with special attention on the support given to black, Asian and ethnic minority doctors, who face additional challenges at work and in the profession due to racism.

Member Relations Strategy

A focus on low density areas (workplaces, grades, or demographics which have low % membership) and on training and supporting reps is crucial to the changing approach to member relations.

Following a motion at ARM, we will be seeking to train safety reps, who have special legally protected roles in workplaces.

Resolution Process Issues

Council spent most of the day discussing a confidential report into the functioning of the resolution process and related issues. Council will take forward many of the recommendations, including changes to enable Appointments Oversight Committee to explain that they do not recommend a candidate due to Code of Conduct issues, and support for senior members of the BMA. A working group will be created to create proposals for changes to the Resolution Process and Articles governing this. We will contribute the concerns raised at ARM about Article 14 to this process.

Finance Report

Council was updated on the BMA financial position, which for a number of reasons is not ideal. Recovery will focus on increasing membership, increasing property income, maximising investments and reducing costs.

Trade Disputes Preparedness Group

Jen Barclay, who sits on this sub-committee of Council, contributed to a brief discussion on expanding the remit of the group to improve preparedness for industrial action across the BMA.

Organisational Issues

We are paying attention to and contributing to work on standardised rules for committees across the BMA. This includes changes to term-limits for Chairs for example. There are also changes to the “universal franchise” (e.g. GPC needing to be BMA members).

Council seat – Armed Forces Seat by-election

There will be a by-election to elect a member of Council for members in the Armed Forces Branch of Practice. Update your Branch of Practice details at www.bma.org.uk/my-bma.

Council Elections 2022-2026

Nominations for seats on UK council (4 year term) will be open 10th January until 4pm 12th February 2022. You will be able to self-nominate via a weblink before elections are held via post. Please consider standing.