I wonder why we are debating this issue now when UK membership exams are already being held overseas for the past many years (Part 1 and more recently Part 2/PACES).

I feel that the topic of this debate should be 'Is there a need for UK membership exams to be held overseas?' One might think that this arrangement probably is a cheaper as well as convenient option for overseas candidates. However, the fact is that they tend to spend more in terms of money, time and energy for various reasons.

There is no doubt that UK membership exam uses an assessment process which is well tested and validated. It maintains a standard which is recognised and appreciated worldwide. It also provides a bench mark for higher postgraduate training in the United Kingdom.

The Royal College of Physicians (UK) has carefully chosen overseas centres for conducting its examinations. What the doctor does after obtaining the diploma is beyond anybody's control. Finally, one must appreciate that such a valuable service cannot be offered for free.

Competing interests: I am member of the Royal College of Physicians (UK)