General Practice Data for Planning Research

That this House is concerned with the current plans for the General Practice Data for Planning Research, while although noting the importance of data for legitimate research believes that it puts patient data and medical histories at serious risk of abuse; believes that the plans will potentially discourage sick patients from seeking support from their GP as the trust between patient and GP confidentiality may be undermined; further believes that the Government's plan is putting undue pressure on already stretched GP practices; believes the current awareness of the plan by the general public is low and bureaucratic opt-out process is designed to dissuade patients; recognises the relationship between GPs and their patients and that general practices have an important role in trust within the healthcare system; and calls on the Government to stop the plan immediately, protect trust in General Practice, protect patient confidentiality for the long term, and embark on a data protection impact assessment.