"The Shipman Inquiry under Dame Janet Smith has made valid criticisms of the systems under which doctors worked both in terms of death certification and cremation certification and called for changes - the BMA has been urging change for thirty years. Although stating that there were deficiencies in the way these doctors carried out their duties in respect of cremation certification, Dame Janet added "However, I do not criticise them personally for that. I consider that, in this respect, the Hyde doctors were no worse than countless of their colleagues elsewhere in the country."

"Whilst it is understandable that there is a desire to investigate and therefore learn from the Shipman events, doctors must not be made scapegoats for faults that lay in the system rather than with them as individuals.

"One of the reasons Shipman's crimes eventually came to light was through the suspicions raised by GPs from the Brooke Practice where some of the doctors referred for investigation by the GMC worked. The Practice raised concerns some considerable time before Shipman was arrested. It seems particularly ironic that these doctors are among those now facing serious professional charges.

We recognise the considerable stress that these investigations will be causing these doctors and will continue to offer our support. We hope these matters will be resolved speedily.

"The BMA has co-operated fully with the Shipman enquiry and following publication of the final report will work with Government to ensure that the lessons arising from the Shipman tragedy are learnt."