Affirmation in GMC MPTS Proceedings
Affirmation at MPTS/GMC
During a tribunal hearing, a witness who gives oral evidence will be asked to either swear an oath on a holy book, or swear an affirmation. An affirmation is a solemn promise to tell he truth.
A witness who gives false evidence may be liable to criminal or civil sanctions. If they are a registered healthcare professional, they might also face allegations of serious professional misconduct. A witness should therefore ensure that what they say is the truth.
The oral evidence a witness provides is generally given the same weight whether they swear an oath or affirm. A witness who gives evidence by telephone will be asked to give the affirmation.
The wording of the general affirmation is as follows:-
I do solemnly sincerely and truly declare and affirm that the evidence I give shall be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth