Doug Alker

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Doug Alker was formerly the chair of the British Deaf Association. His self-published 2000 book, Really Not Interested in the Deaf?, is a criticism of the Royal National Institute for the Deaf, of whom he was Chief Executive for a brief period up until the year 1997. His 'resignation' was the cause of a great scandal and much indignation in the Deaf Community and his book (see above) tells his side of the story and the events leading to his departure, though it is widely believed that he was forced to resign. His appointment in 1994 generated a lot of controversy as there had been a lot of demonstrating and pressure on the RNID to appoint him and it is thought that they caved in to the demands of the protesters and appointed him, perhaps unwillingly. This in turn led to his swift 'resignation' which was coupled with a Golden Handshake of £300,000 to keep his silence on the matter for at least 3 years. It should be noted however that a lot of the above is speculation and apart from some areas has no evidence to back it up.

After he left RNID he set up the political pressure group 'Federation of Deaf People' in 1998, they were determined and forceful campaigners for Deaf Rights however they are currently inactive and Alker is no longer a member. He joined the BDA shortly after this, though he is no longer with them either.