Carlisle MP Julie Minns has invited the chancellor to visit the new medical school in the city which is due to open next year.

The Pears Cumbria School of Medicine will launch in August 2025 and aims to cut a shortage of NHS medical staff in the county.

In a question to the chancellor Rachel Reeves, the MP asked if she would visit the new school next year and whether a ‘modern’ NHS is ‘essential’ to the country’s economic growth.

READ MORE: Major projects 'essential' for Carlisle's growth says Julie Minns

Ms Reeves said: “We will increase the number of elective appointments per week, delivering one of this government's first steps in office to reduce waiting times in the NHS.

“I was also delighted to meet with Professor Hugh Brady from Imperial College London at the International Investment Summit, and he shared with me detail on their important plans to partner with the University of Cumbria to help the next generation of medical professionals in my Honourable Friend's constituency to help address staffing shortfalls and healthcare needs in the area.

“I commend my Honourable Friend for the work that she's doing.”