06/01/05 - Swindon Conservatives Fear For Future Medical Care In Swindon

Swindon Conservatives Fear For Future Medical Care In Swindon

Speaking after the publication of the BMA figures on the huge rise in medical student debt, North & South Swindon Conservative Parliamentary Candidates, Cllr Justin Tomlinson & Robert Buckland said: "This report will make depressing reading for current and potential medical students, as well as local residents.”

The BMA report published today reveals that the average 5th year medical student in debt by £19,248 - 16% higher than last year - & many owe more than £30k.

Cllr Justin Tomlinson continued:

"The country is crying out for more trained medical staff.  But the prospect of medical students facing up to £30k in debt is certain to deter some students from pursuing their ambitions.  With the Great Western Hospital relying on trained medical staff, I am extremely worried for what this means for the future provision of health care in Swindon."

Robert added:

"Conservatives are committed to scrapping all university tuition charges, including top-up fees, as part of ambitious plans for higher education finance.

The party would also retain maintenance grants for less well-off students and allow students to take out bigger loans, helping them to avoid running up expensive credit card debts.”