My father was a GP in Winchester all of his working life and was very honoured when he was appointed area representative of the British Medical Council (BMA).

He summarised his role as "giving assistance to any member of the medical profession who found himself in trouble whether it be professional, financial or family in nature". 

From my recent readings in the press concerning the current activities of the BMA, I wonder what support and advice Doctor Martyn Pitman has received from the BMA or what level of support they are capable of giving. 

This doctor needs all the support there is available to him because his life has now been shattered.

From reading recent articles in the press, the existing leadership of the BMA seems to spend more time organising strikes, an activity probably far removed from their original charter.

I find it hard to believe that the doctor's claims were unanimously dismissed by the Southampton Magistrates Court. What were their qualifications to do so? Patient safety was at stake in this case. They were hardly specialists in this field!

Doctor Pitman was due to sit on a whistle-blowing in healthcare panel in the House of Lords Committee room on Wednesday November 29. Its aim was to end the cycle of abuse experienced by whistleblowers.

The sacking of this expert could be deeply flawed. I notice his claim for unfair dismissal will no longer go ahead. Can I hope there is a good reason for this tactic? You have my total support.

Tim Lowden,
Stockbridge Road,
Sutton Scotney

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