Liberal Democrat Conference: Health - Loyalty fee plea for NHS doctors
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A PROPOSAL to give NHS consultants higher pay to stop them "moonlighting" and taking on private patients was given enthusiastic support by Liberal Democrats yesterday at a fringe meeting with the BMA.
They backed a plan, being considered by health ministers, to reward consultants who work exclusively for the NHS with an extra pounds 30,000 a year, possibly by taking the money from their controversial system of merit money. Newly appointed consultants earn between pounds 45,0000 to pounds 58,000 with merit awards taking their salaries to between pounds 70,00 and pounds 90,000, and occasionally as high as pounds 120,000.
Joe Walsh, a West Sussex GP, was loudly applauded when he called for consultants to be given higher pay for greater commitment to the NHS.
The Liberal Democrat conference approved setting up a standing conference to review rationing decisions; they would also abolish charges for dental check-ups and freeze prescription charges. Simon Hughes, the party's health spokesman, said there should be a maximum waiting time of six months for serious operations.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments