A meeting of the BMA’s Council today issued a statement on the adverse effects of the Autumn Statement of 30 October on general practice.

The statement reads:

BMA Council is astonished at the suggestion that GPs are not part of the NHS family and recognises the existential threat to NHS General Practice across the UK by the significant increase of the National Insurance and National Living Wage burden on general practice after many years of under-investment. We call on health department politicians in all parts of the UK to immediately announce plans to fully meet these added costs that lie outside of any pay uplift mechanisms.

Ends

Notes to editors

You can read yesterday’s letter from GPC England to the Health Secretary asking for a commitment to protect GP practices from increased employer NI contributions here.

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.