Protect Patients: Urge the Government to accept Recommendation 12

Thousands of patients were harmed by surgeon Ian Paterson — many undergoing unnecessary, painful procedures that could have been prevented if action had been taken sooner. This is not an isolated incident.

In 2020, the Bishop James Inquiry into criminal surgeon Ian Paterson made 15 recommendations to stop something like this from ever happening again. One of the most important, Recommendation 12, calls for the immediate suspension of any healthcare professional under investigation if there is a risk to patient safety. 

Shockingly, the government has refused to accept this recommendation.

Ian Paterson continued working for years until 2011 after serious concerns were raised as early as 1996. His case led to 62 inquests into unnatural deaths. This cannot be allowed to happen again.

By accepting Recommendation 12, the government would:

Put patient safety first
Prevent future harm through early action
Ensure proper oversight of healthcare professionals

Protect the integrity of healthcare professionals by removing those individuals who tarnish the reputation of the NHS and Private sector.

This is more than a policy decision — it’s a moral obligation.

Sign this petition to tell the government: patients must come before bureaucracy. Accept Recommendation 12 now.