Number of GPs plunges by 1,000 despite Tory promise to recruit thousands more

The number of GPs in England has fallen by nearly 1,000 over the last four years despite Tory promises to boost numbers.

In 2015 the Conservative government pledged to recruit 5,000 more doctors by 2020.

But since then the number at GP surgeries has fallen, the TUC has found.

The North East had the worst drop of 11% fewer GPs since 2015.

Doctors’ leaders recommend each should have 1,600 patients on their books – but the average number is 2,100.

Dr Richard Vautrey of the BMA said: “There are simply not enough GPs to meet demand and guarantee safe, quality care.

"Despite pledges to increase numbers, we’ve seen the exact opposite.”

The NHS is buckling under the pressure of Tory austerity (PA)

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The Conservatives promised a big increase in GP numbers. But on their watch the number of doctors has fallen while demand has increased.

“Our hardworking and overstretched GPs are working tirelessly to help patients. But there are simply not enough of them to keep up with demand.

“As a result patients are not getting the treatments they need on time. And family doctors are stressed and overwhelmed.

“The next government must invest in our NHS and boost GP numbers.”