
This amendment would have avoided an increase on health and care system providers.
The Government has voted down a Liberal Democrat amendment in Parliament which would have given health and care providers an exemption from the rise in National Insurance contributions (NICs).
Previous research by the Liberal Democrats revealed that the NICs increase could cost Buckinghamshire GP surgeries the equivalent of more than sixteen thousand GP appointments a year, because of the close to £1 million tax bill potentially inflicted upon them by this rise.
The rise in employer NICs is due to be implemented on April 6th 2025.
Sarah Green, MP for Chesham and Amersham constituency said:
"The House of Lords had already backed our amendment and so I am bitterly disappointed that the government did not take this chance to support our health and care providers. GPs, dentists, pharmacies, hospices and care homes are already struggling. I have had contact from numerous providers who are worried that this increase in their tax bill may be the final straw for their service."
"This amendment was a chance to assist these vital services and instead the outcome of the vote has proved a counterproductive decision. I hope the Government reflects on the damage they will be causing if they push ahead with these increases."