News in brief
BMJ 2010; 340 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.c1333 (Published 10 March 2010) Cite this as: BMJ 2010;340:c1333
Tax deadline reminder
Doctors have until 31 March to let the tax office know if they intend to disclose any previously undeclared income in return for a reduced penalty, tax consultants warn. HM Revenue and Customs is using its information powers to obtain income details from various sources, including NHS trusts, private hospitals, and medical insurers. Tax officials are going to compare those data against income tax returns made to uncover any disparities.
Advice for Indian doctors
Specialist advice and protection will be available for all doctors but particularly those of Indian origin under a scheme launched by the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO). The medical defence shield scheme will offer both medical and employment advice on terms and conditions of service, clinical and professional issues, training issues, and legal representation during internal inquiries, General Medical Council investigations, and tribunal cases. From June, it will also offer full professional indemnity cover and financial compensation for patient incidents not covered by standard NHS indemnity.
New health minister
The Department of Health has announced that Baroness Glenys Thornton will be the new health minister, filling the gap created by the resignation of Lord Darzi last summer. The baroness has been a government whip in the House of Lords and the government spokesperson for health, education, and equality. She acted as Lord Darzi’s number two on parliamentary matters in the Lords and worked on the last two health bills.