The United Kingdom's Secretary of State for Health Andy Burnham, MP, has agreed to meet with a delegation from the Isle of Man to discuss the ending of the Reciprocal Health Agreement.

But he's made it clear a change of heart is highly unlikely.

Chief Minister Tony Brown and Health Minister Eddie Teare have welcomed confirmation the man in charge of the UK Department of Health is prepared to meet them in person.

Marian Kenny reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

'Don't get your hopes up' appears to be the message from the UK minister.

In his letter, Mr Burnham points out he's not minded to reconsider the department's decision to terminate the agreement.

If that happens, from April Manx residents will have to pay for medical treatment in the UK, other than accident and emergency care.

Mr Burnham says the termination of the Reciprocal Health Agreement marks the end of an era, but he is happy to discuss how the UK and Isle of Man can work together to ensure citizens of both jurisdictions are made aware of the new arrangements.

Chief Minister Tony Brown says he and Mr Teare will do all they can at the meeting to persuade the UK government to change its mind. They are now awaiting a date for the meeting.