To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 30536/22-27 and AQW 41624/22-27, to detail (i) the rationale as to why there has been a delay in bringing forward a public consultation; and (ii) when it will be published.

As set out in previous answers, my officials were engaging with key stakeholders to develop options for a public consultation on funding for healthcare students’ fees and bursaries. Due to difficulties in securing sufficient time with those stakeholders, and their input, option finalisation has taken longer than expected. That work is, however, now complete.

My officials are now preparing a series of proposals in this area, which I hope to publish for public consultation towards the end of May this year.