GMC apologies to LGBTQ+ doctors for historic disciplinary actions
The General Medical Council (GMC) issued a formal apology today, acknowledging responsibility for its past actions. The GMC expressed deep regret for its decisions to discipline gay doctors and clearly stated that they are “truly sorry” for the harm caused.
Research shows that the GMC investigated at least 40 doctors for engaging in consensual sexual activity with other men. Among these cases, the GMC removed eight doctors from the medical register, which effectively ended their medical careers. These investigations followed outdated laws and societal norms that criminalised homosexuality, even when it involved consenting adults. These unjust actions caused severe personal discrimination and professional devastation for many doctors.
Prof Dame Carrie MacEwen, chair of the GMC, directly delivered the apology. She emphasised the impact of homophobic laws and attitudes, stating, “Homophobic laws and attitudes, which persisted into the 1980s and beyond, caused personal and professional harm.” She admitted that the GMC’s actions made this harm worse by pursuing regulatory actions that targeted GMC LGBTQ+ doctors. In some cases, this even led to the end of their careers. “For this, we are truly sorry,” she said.
Although the UK partially decriminalised homosexuality in the 1960s, many related criminal offences stayed in place for decades. These laws disproportionately targeted gay and bisexual men, with legal charges continuing into the 1990s. At the time, the GMC investigated these cases based on their legal obligations, even though the actions were unjust. Now, the GMC acknowledges that these investigations were wrong and contributed to an already discriminatory system.
The GMC’s apology is an important step for the GMC LGBTQ+ community and those directly affected. However, the apology also highlights the continued need to combat lingering prejudices within healthcare and society. By confronting its past mistakes, the GMC is now committing to creating a more inclusive and fairer future for healthcare professionals.