“While the specific circumstances need to be investigated by the police, this assault, though one of the most extreme, is part of a terrible trend of growing abuse, vitriol and violence that is being directed towards our healthcare workers," warns BMA GP committee chair Dr Richard Vautrey.

Sajid Javid is considering scrapping or watering down plans to give him power over local service changes, in response to concerns from the service, but is expected to plough on with other controversial proposals in the Health and Care Bill, HSJ has learned.

'Decision on booster programme welcome, but primary care will need support', says NHS Confederation.