The possibility of the Isle of Man striking some sort of reciprocal health agreement with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is among the options to be considered, after Tynwald agreed the DHSS should assess the future funding of care for Island residents in United Kingdom hospitals, and report back by July.

From April 1 next year, such care will no longer be free, due to the UK government's decision to withdraw from the agreement.

Last night, an amended motion from Onchan MHK Peter Karran received the backing of the court, the amendments having come from Health Minister Eddie Teare and Speaker of the House of Keys Steve Rodan.

However, Mr Karran's suggestion passengers leaving the Island should pay a levy into a fund, which would be used to pay for hospital stays in the UK, was unsuccessful.

After the debate, Mr Karran told Manx Radio the importance and timing of the issue shouldn't be underestimated:

"It's going to be the poor, it's going to be the old and the sick who are going to get hammered.

"I think this will make sure that people start taking it seriously.

"The fact is, if it concentrates minds and it gets people from outside to start lobbying their MHKs to come up with something that is a right way forward, then let's just hope we can get something that's proactive, that will end up being an asset, something we can be proud of, so that future generations can say this administration dealt with this most important issue sensibly, logically and fairly for the weak in our society."