The next generation of doctors believe they should have the right to refuse to treat certain patients based on personal, moral and religious beliefs.

An anonymous survey of more than 700 British medical students found nearly half felt they should be entitled to make conscientious objections to carrying out procedures, including abortions and treating drunk patients.

Most of their objections were linked to non-religious reasons, but about one-fifth of students cited religion as the key factor.

Out of the 10 different religious groups the students belonged to, Muslims were the most likely to believe they had a right to conscientiously object.

While the findings were based on the attitudes of British students, the head of Australia's peak medical body believes similar ones exist here and medical schools might need to step up their teachings on ethical issues.