The NHS Evidence committee said the decision was due to a lack of sufficiently detailed documented process around the scope and purpose used to develop guidance.

The NHS Evidence's quality mark, signalling accredited sources, will not appear next to the RCM's midwifery guidance.

But the committee did commend the RCM for using ‘representative multi-disciplinary groups’ to develop each piece of guidance, with input from relevant professional stakeholder organisations and potential users. It is encouraging the RCM to reapply in August 2011.

Professor David Haslam, NHS Evidence advisory committee chairman and immediate past president of the RCGP said: ‘Whilst the RCM may be disappointed at today’s decision, I would like to pay tribute to their hard work and commitment throughout the tough process. The committee recognises that the RCM has already made recent progress in improving the processes underlying its guidance production.

‘I hope that the organisation will take on board all of the committee’s recommendations and reapply for accreditation in August 2011.’