Draft law could allow PAs to become consultants despite government denials, doctors insist

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By Claudia Tanner

Doctors' leaders have challenged the government to amend draft legislation if it truly intends to prevent physician associates from obtaining consultant-level qualifications, warning that ministerial assurances offer no legal protection.

Dr Matt Kneale, co-chair of Doctors' Association UK (DAUK), has rejected reassurances from the Department of Health and the General Medical Council over controversial wording in the draft GMC Order 2026, arguing that what the legislation "actually says" differs from what officials claim it means.