Carmichael condemns government vote to hike National Insurance rates on health and social care

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has today condemned the government for continuing to reject exemptions for GPs, dentists, community pharmacists, and care homes in the hike to National Insurance Contributions for employers.

The House of Commons today debated legislative amendments which would have reversed this decision, but which were voted down by the government this afternoon.

Speaking after the votes, Mr Carmichael said:

“I am disappointed that the government will not listen to sense and at the very least exempt health and care providers from these harmful tax hikes. GPs, care homes and other care providers are already under serious pressure. 

“I have heard from local GPs and other care providers who are deeply concerned about the impact of the government’s tax hikes on the level of care they provide. The risk is that we end up straining services or even putting some out of business, which will cost the NHS and taxpayers more in the long run.

“There is still time for ministers to reverse course – now is the time to do so.”