RCS response to proposed NHS pension rule changes

Responding to the Government’s proposed changes to NHS pensions rules, Professor Derek Alderson, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, said:

“Surgeons have told us that changes to the pensions system have left them unable to volunteer for extra work for fear of receiving unpredictable and crippling tax bills. 

“It is nonsensical to have a tax system that discourages doctors from taking on additional shifts.  The NHS needs staff to be working every shift they can manage if it is to make a start at tackling the record 4.3 million people on hospital waiting lists.

“The consultation announced today is a step in the right direction.  We hope it will lead to permanent changes to the pensions system that will allow NHS staff to get on with the huge job of reducing the backlog of patients waiting for treatment.”

Notes to editors

The Royal College of Surgeons of England is a professional membership organisation and registered charity, which exists to advance surgical standards and improve patient care.

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