NHS free prescription age change plans receive intense backlash – ‘nasty move!’ | Personal Finance | Finance
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The free prescription age is currently set at 60 in England, but this could potentially change in the future. A Government consultation recently took place which looked at the idea of increasing the free prescription age to align with state pension age. This would mean Britons would be entitled to a free prescription at 66, and rising, as the state pension age is due to increase in future.
While the matter has not yet been decided, many people are uncomfortable with the idea of having to wait a longer amount of time.
A number of Express.co.uk readers passionately expressed their displeasure with the potential for a free prescription age rise.
Many also cited the idea that free prescriptions are currently available in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for all.
This is not the case in England, where certain individuals who do not fall under any exemptions will have to pay.
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Certain readers expressed the change, if it goes ahead, may make them reconsider their political allegiance.
Free prescription alterations may not be a popular move amongst staunch Tory voters.
An outraged Paul4 stated: “I’ve voted Tory all my life, but will never vote for them again.
“They are looking to increase the age people become eligible when people are, on average, dying younger and now they want to stop free prescriptions for over 60s.”
“These people have paid into the state pension for 50 years and are owed it.”
And Weary Will wrote: “What a disgusting idea. Conservatives will reap what they sow at the next general election.”
However, not all people are opposed to the idea of a rise to the free prescription age.
One reader, Righton Target, expressed their belief that the change should not be resisted by older people.
They remarked: “I paid for prescriptions right up until 60 and yet did not retire until I was 65.
“I couldn’t see the point of such an early benefit being paid to be honest. So working 60-year-olds can pay as far as I’m concerned, as they are earning enough to afford them.
“Wait until you retire and end up on a third of the national wage before you start moaning!”
The user added: “The over 60s and under 66s are WORKING!! They can pay.”
A similar opinion was shared by another Express.co.uk reader, who did not appear especially phased by the change, but did wish to see a reduction in prescription costs.
BarbaraWatson said: “I don’t see why we can’t make a contribution of, say, a fiver for every ‘script regardless of the amount of medication.
“I know we all moan but we have bus passes, bonus, fuel allowance and think we are lucky compared to many.”
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