Medical organisations deliver mixed verdict on Autumn Statement

Organisations representing UK medical professionals have delivered their responses to the government's Autumn Statement, with both positive and negative reactions to its NHS plans.

The British Medical Association has described the news that an extra two billion pounds will be made available annually for the NHS, in addition to a fresh investment of 1.2 billion for GP services, as a "step in the right direction".

However, it noted that this alone will not be enough to correct years of underinvestment in the NHS, calling for a long-term plan to deal with rising demand, rather than short-term promises based on political expediency.

The Royal College of GPs was more positive, saying it is "delighted" with the funding uplift, expressing hope that it will be part of a sustained commitment to supporting general practice.

However, the Royal College of Nursing condemned the news that the government will continue its policy of public sector pay restraint, as it believes medical workers are not receiving a fair wage as a result.