Barrister Imran Khan KC has published a detailed critique of the Mann Review, questioning whether its commitment to ensuring there is “no hierarchy of discrimination” is reflected in its recommendations.

In No Hierarchy of Racism? The Mann Review Puts That Promise to the Test, Khan examines differences in how the Review responds to evidence concerning different forms of racism and discrimination. He highlights evidence submitted directly by BIMA on disproportionality within disciplinary and regulatory processes, including the unequal outcomes experienced by under-represented groups. While this evidence is recorded within the Review’s themes, Khan notes that it resulted in no specific recommendation. By contrast, the Review devotes considerably greater attention to strengthening regulatory appeal powers, despite longstanding concerns about the disproportionate referral of ethnic minority and internationally qualified doctors.

The article also draws on concerns raised subsequently by BIMA and the wider BAME & Allies Healthcare Professionals Coalition around parity, equity, political expression and the lack of meaningful engagement with affected healthcare communities during implementation.

BIMA continues to engage directly with the GMC on these issues. We met with the regulator again last week as part of its Strategic Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Forum (SEDIF), where we raised our continuing disappointment and concern about the implementation of the Mann Review, including the need for meaningful stakeholder engagement, appropriate oversight, and greater consideration of the potential impact of its recommendations on groups already experiencing disproportionate disciplinary and regulatory outcomes.

Read Imran Khan KC’s full article here.