'Reciprocal agreement can still be saved' - MP

An MP is urging people in the Isle of Man and the Manx Government to save the reciprocal health agreement.

Healthcare for Manx residents in the United Kingdom will no longer be free from next April, following the UK government’s decision to withdraw from the long standing arrangement.

However, with less than four months to go, Labour member for Thurrock Andrew Mackinlay believes it's not too late to change the decision.

Mr Mackinlay tabled questions on the issue in the House of Commons yesterday and will have a reply later today.

He is urging Island residents and their UK based families to put pen to paper.

Health Minister Eddie Teare, who has been criticised for a lack of urgency, says health chiefs in the Isle of Man are doing everything they can and are continuing to assess whether a reciprocal agreement can be established between the Island and devolved jurisdictions.