Consultation launched on English language tests for doctors

The government has announced the launch of a new consultation on plans to introduce English aptitude checks for foreign doctors.

Opinions are being solicited on proposals that would see senior doctors who evaluate other clinicians' fitness to practise given extra powers to ensure all medical professionals working in the UK understand the language and NHS processes.

Currently, doctors from outside the EU have to take rigorous language tests when coming to work in Britain, but continental laws make it illegal to systematically apply the same checks to European doctors.

The aim of the new consultation is to ensure standards of competence improve, while providing patients with greater confidence in the communications skills of their doctors.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "Sadly, we are all too familiar with what can happen when qualified doctors don't have a good command of English. This puts patients at risk and I am determined to stop this."

Earlier this month, the government launched a pilot scheme in London, Manchester, Salford and Nottingham that will empower patients to choose which GP practice they wish to register with for the first time.