BMA agrees further lobbying action over NHS reforms

The British Medical Association (BMA) has committed to a programme of continued lobbying in an effort to influence the path of the government's NHS reform plans.

Following a meeting of the organisation's council, the BMA has confirmed its full backing over chairman Dr Hamish Meldrum's handling of the process thus far, while outlining its intention to conduct local events and other campaigning activity.

Dr Meldrum reiterated the body's stance that the Health and Social Care Bill, which was ratified by the House of Commons this month, is "deeply flawed" and must be significantly amended or withdrawn entirely.

The planned lobbying campaign is designed to highlight doctors' continuing concerns over the bill, such as its focus on competition and potential negative impact on responsibility and accountability.

Ahead of its reading at the House of Lords, the BMA wishes to rally support for changes to the legislation to address these fears.

Dr Meldrum said: "The BMA will continue to publicly and vigorously highlight the concerns of doctors and patients, particularly to peers who have a real opportunity to protect the NHS."