BMA Cuts Union's Core Function: Workplace Representation for NHS Doctors Faces 40% IRO Reduction

The British Medical Association is cutting industrial relations officer posts from 23.5 to 14 as part of a restructuring that will eliminate 200 of 600 England-based staff. IROs handle grievances, contract disputes, and workplace negotiations for NHS doctors — the essential work of a trade union. The 40% reduction coincides with staff no-confidence votes and a financial crisis requiring £86.8 million in subsidies since 2008. Chairs of 110 local negotiating committees have protested the cuts directly to BMA leadership.