Jersey says it's hopeful it can sign a new deal on health with the United Kingdom following the Isle of Man's recent success.

The Channel island's Reciprocal Health Agreement came to an end in April last year after the UK said it wasn’t worthwhile.

But after the Manx government signed its new deal last Thursday, hopes are high in the Channel island that a similar one can be brokered with the coalition government in the UK.

Jersey’s Health Minister Anne Pryke says she hopes a new agreement can now be put together.

She spoke out after the Isle of Man and the UK put their signatures on the new deal, which means residents will continue to receive free healthcare when travelling between the two jurisdictions.

People living in Jersey now have to pay for hospital treatment in the UK, apart from accident and emergency treatment.

In a statement, Mrs Pryke said: 'The signing of an agreement between the Isle of Man and the UK is good news and demonstrates that the coalition government is open to new health agreements.

'Jersey is working closely with the UK and it is hoped a new agreement will be developed early next year.'