Yeovil MP Adam Dance backs key amendment to protect GPS, dentists and hospices from Government tax hike

Adam Dance, MP for Yeovil, has supported a successful Liberal Democrat amendment to the Government’s National Insurance Contributions Bill, aimed at shielding vital health and care providers from a proposed tax increase.

The amendment would exempt GPs, dentists, pharmacies, hospices, and social care providers from the planned hike, which has sparked significant concerns about its impact on already overstretched services. In Yeovil, pharmacies alone provide over 6,700 prescriptions each month and have saved at least 576 GP appointments this year through the Pharmacy First Service. Yet rising costs and limited investment threaten the sustainability of these essential services.

Adam Dance MP said:

“I’ve spoken with GPs, dentists, and care providers in Yeovil who are deeply worried about how this tax hike will affect their ability to deliver vital care. Local patients will bear the brunt if surgeries, pharmacies, and hospices are forced to cut back services.

“That’s why I backed this Liberal Democrat amendment to protect these crucial services. The government must focus on fixing local healthcare, not burdening the very providers who keep our communities healthy.”

Adam also raised the issue of funding for pharmacies during a recent Westminster Hall debate on ‘Government Support for Community Pharmacies in Devon and the South West,’ organised by Rachel Gilmour MP. He highlighted the critical role pharmacies play in easing pressure on the NHS, calling for urgent clarity on funding arrangements.

He said:

“Since the launch of the Pharmacy First service this year, it is estimated that pharmacies in Yeovil have saved at least 556 GP appointments. However, a lack of investment and the rise in national insurance contributions threaten the amazing work done by pharmacies in Yeovil and across the country. Will my hon. Friend join me in urging the Minister to provide a clear timeline for the consultation to start?”

The Liberal Democrats warn that the National Insurance increase could cost GP surgeries the equivalent of more than two million appointments annually, with an additional £125.5 million tax bill. Hospices, many of which rely on charity funding, are also at risk of further financial strain.

Adam added:

“This vote sends a strong message: our health and care services need support, not added costs. I’ll continue fighting to protect our NHS, pharmacies, and care providers so they can deliver the care Yeovil and South Somerset deserve.”

Rachel Gilmour thanked Adam Dance for his thoughtful intervention and explained the serious problems with how pharmacies are funded. Most of their income comes from the NHS, but the money they get back for medications is too low. This makes it hard for UK pharmacies to compete with global markets, causing medication shortages and extra pressure on pharmacies, the NHS, and taxpayers. She described the system as trying to "push water uphill with a sieve" and stressed the need for urgent changes.