Keir Starmer is facing calls from MPs to scrap a controversial healthcare agreement dubbed the “Trump tax” deal and redirect funds towards improving the ailing social care system in the UK. The Liberal Democrats have criticized the Prime Minister for allegedly being influenced by the US President in striking a new trade pact, which is projected to significantly raise pharmaceutical costs. Despite government assertions that the deal will benefit the UK by securing zero tariffs on pharmaceuticals from the US, experts argue that the price thresholds for medicines could soar by up to 25%.
Pressure is mounting on the Prime Minister to accelerate reforms in social care as statistics reveal that over 4.3 million hospital days have been unnecessarily prolonged due to delayed discharges. Deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, Daisy Cooper, has urged Starmer to prioritize fixing the social care crisis over honoring the trade deal with the US. While the government had initiated a cross-party commission on social care in January last year, progress has been slow, drawing criticism for postponing crucial reforms.
The Labour party has pledged to establish a National Care Service by the 2024 general election, with Baroness Louise Casey leading a commission expected to present initial recommendations this year and final proposals by 2028. Although the UK-US agreement has faced backlash over potential increased drug costs, the government maintains that it will safeguard supplies and secure beneficial terms for the UK’s medical technology exports.
In response to the criticisms, a government spokesperson refuted claims of diverting funds from NHS services to fund the trade deal, emphasizing its importance in enhancing access to life-saving medicines. The spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to address delays in hospital discharges and improve NHS productivity, along with collaborative initiatives between the NHS, local authorities, and social care providers to enhance discharge processes and support patients in receiving care at home.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the healthcare chief under former President Trump, hailed the UK-US agreement as a positive step towards balancing pharmaceutical trade and promoting innovation in medicines. The statement commended Trump for his leadership in driving reforms that prioritize American interests.