Surgeons respond to GMC fitness to practise data for doctors
30 Jul 2026
Responding to the General Medical Council's (GMC) 'Concerns about Fitness to Practise Annual Statistical Report 2025’, Mr Tim Lane, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England), said:
“Sexual misconduct has no place in healthcare. The fact that sexual misconduct cases have accounted for more than 40% of GMC appeals since 2016, more than any other single category of concern, demonstrates the seriousness of this issue and the need for continued action across the healthcare system. Greater transparency is an important step towards improving accountability and public confidence.
“We welcome the progress that has been made, but we know these figures are unlikely to reflect the full scale of the problem. Many people remain reluctant to report sexual misconduct because of concerns about career repercussions, power imbalances, and a lack of confidence in existing processes.
“We are calling on the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to establish a national, independent and anonymous reporting mechanism for NHS staff. This must be trauma-informed and impartial, enabling staff to report sexual misconduct without fear of retaliation or bias.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
1. RCS England's Turning the Tide Report called for a more trauma-informed approach to handling sexual misconduct cases, better support for individuals involved in proceedings, and greater transparency in the data.
2. The Royal College of Surgeons of England provides world-class education, assessment, and development to 30,000 surgeons, dental professionals, and members of the wider surgical and dental care teams at all stages of their careers. Our vision is to see excellent surgical care for everyone. We do this by setting professional standards, facilitating research, and championing the best outcomes for patients.
3. For further information, please contact the Royal College of Surgeons of England press office on 020 7869 6053/6054/6047 or pressoffice@rcseng.ac.uk.