The BMA has elected its next leader. The Association’s Council voted for one of four candidates who were standing for Chair of Council and Professor Philip Banfield has been elected.
Professor Banfield said,
“I am absolutely delighted to have been elected to be the BMA’s next Chair of Council. It is a true honour.
“My priorities will be to stand up for every member whoever and wherever they are. It has never been more important for the BMA to be an effective trade union as well as a professional association. I believe that by standing up for doctors, we are standing up for our patients in a system that seems to have forgotten that valuing staff and their well-being is directly linked to patient safety and better outcomes of care.
“As the new Chair of Council, one of my priorities will be to focus on the plight of doctors and patients, so the public understands just why doctors have been and continue to be angry and frustrated. They are exhausted, burnt out and disillusioned – the pandemic exacerbated persistent under-resourcing of the NHS and social care in the UK that has gone on for years.
“It is time for action. This is what our members and the public expect, and this is what we will deliver”.
Professor Philip Banfield is an obstetrician, educator and academic based in north Wales. He is currently the chair of the BMA Welsh Consultants Committee, is the immediate past chair of the BMA Welsh Council and has been on UK Council since 2012. He lives in Wales, is married to a GP, and has a son who is also a GP.
The new chair of Council is a member of the BMA Council 2022-23. The BMA Council is the Association's principal executive committee, and its chair is also chair of the BMA's Board of Directors and a member of the chief officer team.
Professor Banfield has been elected by Single Transferable Vote and will serve a three-year term, providing overall leadership in developing and implementing the policies, objectives, and strategies of the BMA. He takes up his post with immediate effect.

Ends

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.