51�Թ�

Access to PrEP had been variable, Mr Angell said, creating inequalities.

"The benefit of opt-out testing is that you can get a test to people that would otherwise never come forward for a HIV test," Mr Angell said.

Mr Angell said early testing also makes "good money sense for the NHS" as it allows early treatment, which stops HIV progressing, preventing severe illness, emergency visits and more costly treatments.

Richard Angell, the chief executive of sexual health charity the Terrence Higgins Trust, said opt-out testing was a "win-win for everyone".

Richard Angell, chief executive of Terrence Higgins Trust said Mr McKenna's statement was "a hugely significant act but delivered as he would like it to be treated - as just another long term condition."