Andrew Gwynne MP, Labour’s Shadow Public Health Minister, commenting on the increase in prescription and dental charges, said:

“These increases are a kick in the teeth for patients.

“Prescription charges and dental fees can really build up and impose a considerable cost, particularly at a time when family budgets are being squeezed.

“The truth is Tory Ministers are increasing these charges because they’ve lost control of NHS finances. Hospitals are forecasting huge deficits and spending on agency staff has gone through the roof.

“Patients shouldn’t have to pay the price for this Government’s financial mismanagement of the NHS.”