MP urges u-turn on medics' visa plan

10 May 2006

The Home Office must think again on changes to visa rules for trainee doctors from overseas, a Glasgow MP said today.

Ann McKechin, MP for Glasgow North, said she has been contacted by doctors worried the changes could mean they won't be allowed to complete training.

The government said in March that any UK or EU applicant, even if not as well qualified, had to be given priority over doctors from elsewhere. Ms McKechin said the plans had been "rushed through without adequate debate and consultation", adding: "The Home Office should have transitional arrangements for doctors who are already training."

As the Evening Times reported last week, the SNP warned the change in immigration rules could force many overseas doctors to quit the UK, depriving Scotland of 13% of its health workforce. It is estimated up to 15,000 doctors are working in British hospitals while training to become specialists. The Executive said there would not be a shortfall in doctors as there was already great competition for available vacancies.