British Medical Association calls on NHS to halt IHRA roll-out pending legal opinion

The British Medical Association (BMA) has formally requested that NHS England halt the implementation of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism across its organizations. The BMA is seeking a pause pending a thorough legal review and the establishment of proper safeguards.

This call stems from a motion passed at the BMA's Annual Representative Meeting in June 2026. The association expressed concerns that the IHRA definition could potentially restrict free expression among healthcare workers. In a letter to Sir Jim Mackey, Chief Executive of NHS England, the BMA noted that adopting the IHRA definition is not legally mandated, despite trusts being strongly encouraged to implement it by the end of July 2026.

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NHS staff must be able to work in environments free from harassment and be able to engage in legitimate political and ethical debate.

The BMA argues that the rollout is proceeding without a comprehensive assessment of its practical and legal implications for both employers and staff. They are urging for a pause to allow for proper consultation and legal advice. This position is supported by a legal opinion commissioned by Health Workers 4 Palestine and circulated by law firm Leigh Day. The opinion suggests that while antisemitism is already prohibited under the Equality Act 2010, the IHRA definition introduces complex issues for NHS organizations.

Dr. Emma Runswick, BMA's deputy chair of Council, emphasized the need for healthcare staff to work in environments free from harassment and to engage in legitimate political and ethical debate. She urged any hospital trust that has already adopted the definition to review its safeguards and pause implementation if they are found wanting. The BMA is seeking an urgent discussion with NHS England to address these concerns.

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difficult questions for NHS organizations at a time when many healthcare workers are expressing concern about Israel's conduct in Gaza.