Calls for exemption from NI increases for GPs

National Insurance contributions for employers were increased in the Autumn budget, and this is going to pose a burden on doctors’ practices according to Edinburgh West MP, Christine Jardine.

She has called upon the Government to exempt GPs and other heath and care providers from the recent changes, but so far Ministers have refused to do so.

Ms. Jardine met local GPs over recent days, who say that adding to their tax burden could have serious consequences for their ability to provide patient care.

The Liberal Democrats are seeking to use amendments to upcoming legislation on the Budget to exempt GPs from National Insurance tax rises. 

Without an exemption, the Institute of General Practice Management estimates that the average GP surgery’s tax bill would go up by around £20,000 per year.

Ms Jardine said: “At a time when primary care is stretched to its limits, adding further burden to GP surgeries is short-sighted and unacceptable.

“I especially worry that it could make it harder for my constituents to get an appointment with their GP, when so many are already struggling to do so.

“I think we all hoped that a new Government might finally bring about the change that GPs and care providers so desperately need, but it seems that the Labour party have carried on the legacy of the Conservatives before them.”