£3 million spent on medical flights by health department

FOI reveals figures

More than three million pounds was spent on medical and emergency flights over the last year by the Department of Health of Social Care.

Figures revealed via freedom of information request show the sum was spread over the cost of 18,180 flights between 2016-17.

The department's approved supplier is Flybe, which gives 'specific prices' and 'flexible terms for ticketing' - the actual rate isn't given due to commercial confidentiality.

Sailings for medical and emergency trips cost the department £61,500 for a total number of 778 boat journeys.