NHS England is scrapping its multimillion-pound Care.data programme which aimed to share patient information across the NHS.

The controversial scheme - which came in for heavy criticism from groups including the British Medical Association (BMA) and the Royal College of GPs - intended to put GP records on a giant database.

The plan was to help researchers develop new treatments and improve the monitoring of NHS performance.

But it was beset by problems, including controversy over a leaflet dropped through the letterboxes of homes in England telling people how to opt in or out of having their information shared.

The new announcement, by life sciences minister, George Freeman, comes after a Government-ordered review from Dame Fiona Caldicott said ministers should look again at the future of Care.data.

In a written statement, Mr Freeman said the Government and the health and care system still "remain absolutely committed to realising the benefits of sharing information, as an essential part of improving outcomes for patients.

"Therefore this work will now be taken forward by the National Information Board, in close collaboration with the primary care community, in order to retain public confidence and to drive better care for patients."

What do you think? Should GPs be allowed to share information?

Should GPs be allowed to share patient records?
NHS England is scrapping a multi-million pound scheme to share patient data in the hopes of boosting research and improving care.