MP Helen Maguire calls for urgent reversal of National Insurance hike that could put over 35,000 GP appointments at risk in Surrey

According to the latest analysis, a rise in employers’ National Insurance contributions announced in the recent Budget could put 35,357 GP appointments at risk in Surrey

In response, Helen Maguire, MP for Epsom and Ewell, has written to Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, calling on the Government to exempt GPs and other health and care providers from the National Insurance increase. She is working alongside other Surrey MPs to introduce amendments to upcoming legislation to protect local GP surgeries from the burden of this rise.

The Institute of General Practice Management has estimated that the rise will mean the average GP surgery’s tax bill will increase by around £20,000 a year. This could cost GPs in Surrey nearly £2 million for all 99 practices in the area. This is the equivalent cost of providing 35,137 GP appointments.

MP for Epsom & Ewell Helen Maguire said:

“Our hardworking GPs are already under immense pressure, and this tax rise will only add to the burden. At a time when local surgeries are struggling to provide enough appointments for patients, this increase will take away valuable resources that could be used for patient care. Instead, it will mean fewer appointments and longer waits for people in Epsom & Ewell, many of whom are already facing difficulties accessing timely care.

“The Chancellor must urgently rethink these proposals and exempt GPs from this damaging hike. We cannot continue to burden our local health services when they are already stretched to breaking point.

“I will continue to press the Government to reverse this decision and prioritise the wellbeing of patients, not further undermine an already struggling system.”