'No confidence' in Manx UK health deal

The future of the reciprocal health agreement between the Isle of Man and the UK still hangs in the balance.

Politicians have called for a "full and unequivocal" statement on its future. The deal, which means Manx people can get free hospital care in the UK, is due to end in five weeks.

So far a new agreement has not yet been drawn up.

But health minister David Anderson has said he is confident the new one will be in place as of 1 October.

Travel levy

One of the MHKs who has signed the petition to the government calling for a clear stance on the issue said the public do not necessarily share Mr Anderson's confidence.

East Douglas MHK Chris Robertshaw said: "It has unnerved people it has left them uncertain.

"People need reassurance that if the agreement is not renewed immediately on 1 October our government will pay to bridge that gap."

If the agreement is ended, it is possible that a travel levy will be introduced for people travelling between the island and the UK or health insurance would need to be taken out.

Island residents would still receive free emergency treatment in the UK.