GPCE* chair, Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer, announced today (Wednesday 19th March) in a speech to GPs in England that the Government has formally committed to renegotiating a completely new national contract.  

This commitment comes following a GPCE meeting last month, where the committee tentatively agreed to accept the proposed reforms - including an overall funding uplift of £889 million for 2025/26 GP contracts - on the condition that the Government commits to negotiating a new national contract within this Parliament.  

​On the day of a special England LMC** conference, Dr Bramall-Stainer acknowledged that GPs have been neglected for far too long and that by agreeing to the renegotiation of a new contract the Government has shown that bringing back the family doctor is a top priority. She believes that GPs are in a ‘critical window of influence’ and welcomes the Government’s commitment to fixing the front door of the NHS, by establishing general practice at the heart of a neighbourhood health service.  

The GPCE believe that the 2025/26 contract agreement signalled the start of a relationship reset, where the Government was listening to GPs’ concerns – and acting on them.  

Commenting on the commitment from the Government Dr Bramall-Stainer said: “We need to see proof of the Government’s commitment to general practice in this spring’s comprehensive spending review from the Treasury, and in the DHSC’s 10 Year Plan for the NHS: this is where the Government will be able to ensure that general practice can become the jewel in the crown of the NHS in England once more."

Today's gathering in London is a special LMC Conference, attended by GPs from across the nation, representing the whole profession. This conference was called for in November 2024, before the 2025/26 contract changes were negotiated or agreed upon.  

LMC Conference agendas are set by the LMC Agenda Committee, and the motions passed reflect the profession’s sentiment, helping to inform GPCE’s approach when shaping future BMA policy decisions. GPCE is the sole negotiating body for the GP contract across England which care for 1.5 million patients every day. 

ENDS

Notes to editors

*GPCE, BMA’s general practice committee for England.

 **Local Medical Committee, A representative body of NHS GPs that represents the interests of GPs to NHS health authorities at a local level.   

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.

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