Tory MPs raise fears over free prescription cuts in England for ages 60-65

As ministers look for ways to stem rising NHS costs, some warn against the move during a cost of living crisis

Concerns are growing among Tory MPs about proposals that would scrap free prescriptions in England for some people aged between 60 and 65, as ministers search for ways to stem rising NHS costs.

Charities have already sounded their alarm at a consultation by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) proposing to link free prescriptions to the retirement age, meaning the threshold would rise from 60 to 66 years old. It is estimated to save the Treasury more than £250m a year, but comes as MPs are already concerned about rising living costs.