The threat of families switching to a new doctor if their GP chooses to opt out of treating under-6s for free is likely to be one of the key deciding factors in whether doctors sign up.

Doctors have rejected a motion to support legislation for abortion where there is a “real and substantial risk’’ to the life of the mother, in line with the X case.

WE drink more and work harder and longer than our counterparts in the North, according to latest official figures.