In its latest guidance paper on the White Paper reforms, the GPC said it would ‘strongly encourage’ sessional GPs to consider putting themselves forward for a leadership role.

It said it is important that the talents of such a large proportion of the GP workforce are not wasted.

In ‘Sessional GPs: GP Commissioning and Impact of the NHS White Paper’ the GPC said sessional GPs were often well-placed to take on leadership roles within consortia.

It said locums will have worked in a large number of practices within a consortium area and therefore have a ‘unique understanding’ of the local patient populations and how other practices work.

It added that because sessional GPs do not have some of the responsibilities that come with running a GP practice, it might put them in a good position to take on this extra responsibility.

It said: ‘Many sessional GPs have taken on a large portfolio of different roles within their careers and have acquired transferable management and leadership skills from doing so; these skills would be invaluable in taking a lead role within a consortium.’

The GPC urged GPs to ensure that elections for the transitional leadership are inclusive.

It said: ‘This would give consortia access to the widest range of talent, thus increasing the transitional leadership’s chance of success.

‘The structures for voting in election to the leadership should also be inclusive of all GPs within the consortium’s boundaries.

Dr Rachel McMahon, a GP in Cleveland and a member of the GPC sessional committee said: ‘Obviously there is no pressure for sessional GPs to be involved. Some will want to and some will not.

‘The issue is making sure that everyone has equal access to be involved in a consortium.’