Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary Ross Finnie MSP has welcomed the publication of the Audit Scotland report on new GP contracts, stating that the new contract is a sound basis for developing further general medical services in the community.

Mr Finnie has also welcomed the report's highlighting of the pivotal role NHS GPs play in the delivery of local healthcare.

Commenting, Mr Finnie said:

"I welcome this report and support its principal recommendations which conclude that the New General Medical Services contract is a sound basis for developing further general medical services.

“Liberal Democrats look to the Government to ensure that more patient benefits are secured from the contract sooner rather than later.

“I strongly believe that there should be no more tampering with the basic provisions of the contract such as with extended hours.

“Liberal Democrats have consistently maintained that the Government should be negotiating with the health professionals on the provision of 24 hour care along the lines of the out-of-hours cooperative model referred to in this Audit Scotland report."