RCGP members support axing of Health and Social Care Bill

Members of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) are in support of the controversial Health and Social Care Bill being scrapped entirely.

A survey carried out by the organisation suggested that 98 percent of GPs would be in favour of the RCGP pursuing a withdrawal of the bill, as part of a joint approach with other medical royal colleges.

More than 90 percent were also shown to be favour of the RCGP seeking such an outcome independently, while the majority of members said they feel less positive about the bill now than they did last autumn.

The legislation overcame a major hurdle in October 2011 when the House of Lords voted against proposals to block the progress of the bill.

It is expected to be held by the Lords until the end of January 2012, with the RCGP suggesting that now would therefore be an appropriate time for reiterate its members concerns and work with the government to make improvements.

In particular, the college is calling for the retention of the health secretary's responsibilities over service quality, as well as clarification on initiatives to expand competition in the sector.