Ensuring doctors have sufficient English language capability

This consultation seeks views on proposals to change the Medical Act 1983 to give the General Medical Council (GMC) more power to take action where concerns arise about a doctor’s English language capability. 

The proposals are designed to complement and strengthen the existing language controls imposed through the responsible officer regulations, performers list regulations and other checks undertaken at a local level.

The Department of Health has been working with the GMC and other stakeholders to develop these proposals.