The result of a two-year research project carried out by the author, which investigates the role, policies and structure of the General Medical Counsel (GMC) since its creation. The GMC is a statutory body elected by members of the medical profession in the U.K. and is responsible for monitoring the standards of medical training and taking disciplinary action where needed. The origins of the GMC are discussed as a prelude to an analysis of its present critical situation including the very latest proposed changes to its structure.