MP calls for Government to scrap NHS fees for overseas health and care workers

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has joined calls for the Government to scrap plans to increase the NHS surcharge paid by migrant care workers.

Currently all migrant workers from outside of the European Economic Area, including those working in the NHS and social care, have to pay an NHS surcharge of £400 every year.

But from October, the Government are planning on increasing the charge to £624.

Tim is calling for the charge to be scrapped altogether as a way of thanking overseas front-line workers for their efforts during this crisis.

Tim said: "At eight o'clock tonight, Government ministers will put their hands together to clap for our carers, many of whom are from overseas. But then with those same hands they will write those carers a massive bill for accessing the care system that they are helping to run.

"These people are risking their lives to keep our loved ones safe, and this is how we thank them?

"We should scrap this appalling charge altogether and give indefinite leave to remain to all overseas workers who have been putting their lives on the line for our country during this crisis."