The numbers of patients removed from GPs' lists in the Lanarkshire NHS Board area each year excluding those removed as a result of death, emigration or change of address are as follows: 199619971998199920002001Number of removals7546671,0961,007435568Removals in cases of violence1113176306The terms of service for GPs are set out in the NHS (General Medical Services) (Scotland) Regulations 1995. Except where a GP wishes removal to take place with immediate effect because of violence or the threat of it, the regulations do not require GPs to give reasons for the removal of a patient and consequently no guidance has been issued from the Executive.The General Medical Council has issued guidance to doctors which states that they must not discriminate against patients on the basis of their lifestyle, culture, beliefs, race, colour, gender, sexuality, age, social status or perceived economic worth.