MEMBERS of the armed forces and their families will be invited to join an online inquiry into healthcare provision in the services.

Bolton North East MP David Crausby, who is vice-chairman of the Commons defence select committee, is to look into arrangements for services personnel at home and overseas.

The inquiry will look into medical support in cases of urgent surgery, from immediate treatment in conflict zones to aftercare back in the UK. It will also examine the way the Ministry of Defence uses the NHS to provide healthcare.

Mr Crausby said: "It's absolutely vital that our servicemen and women are given the best possible treatment, care and support.

"We need to be sure we are doing all we can for them.

"I understand that the Ministry of Defence has already entered into some arrangements with NHS providers, and extending these partnerships is one option for the future. But what's really important to me is to hear from members of the armed forces and their families.

"With large numbers of our armed forces abroad at the moment in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, their welfare is of paramount importance."

Details of how to submit evidence online will be revealed in the coming weeks.