In a letter to health and social care secretary, James Murray, the BMA said the Government had launched a consultation in March on retaining the right to appeal citing its recommendation in the forthcoming Mann Review, which was published in June.

The BMA argued the review recommended the Government should consult on whether to retain the GMC's right to appeal, rather than specifically recommending it be retained.

BMA council deputy chair Dr Emma Runswick said: ‘We are clear that the proposal to retain the GMC's right to appeal should be removed. Falling short of that, the Government needs to re-consult with accurate and comprehensive information.

‘When trust and confidence in the GMC is so low, there is an opportunity for meaningful reform that will both support doctors and protect patients. However, the process so far indicates that this opportunity is being completely wasted.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: ‘The Mann Review recommends consulting on whether the GMC should retain its right to appeal against fitness to practise decisions - that is exactly what the Government is now doing.

‘This proposal is intended to ensure oversight of decision-making at all key points in the fitness to practise process, and we welcome stakeholder views on this matter.'