| Nationality: | Australian |
| Occupation: | Gastroenterologist |
| Years Active: | 1985–2001 |
| Employer: | University of London |
John Walker-Smith is an Australian[1] gastroenterologist well known for his work in pediatrics.[2] From 1985 until his retirement in 2001, he was professor of pediatric gastroenterology at the University of London.[3] [4] He also formerly served as the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.[5]
See main article: Lancet MMR autism fraud. Walker-Smith is the senior co-author of a fraudulent paper (along with Andrew Wakefield, the lead author) which claimed a unique gastrointestinal condition in autistic children that may be connected to the MMR vaccine. This study is generally regarded as sparking the MMR vaccine controversy.[6]
In 2010, Walker-Smith was found guilty by the General Medical Council of professional misconduct who recommended erasure subject to appeal. As a result, he was barred from practicing medicine.[4] [7] On appeal, the case heard by Mr. Justice Mitting in the High Court stated that the GMC determinations were superficial and inadequate and so were quashed.[8]
In a statement reported in the book on the fraud by Brian Deer, Walker-Smith said: