Council motion condemns pharmacy cuts

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has welcomed a motion passed by Kendal Town Council this week condemning the government's cuts to community pharmacies.

Tim has repeatedly spoken out about cuts to pharmacies, which face a 7% cut to budgets over the next two years. Only 20 of the 110 pharmacies in Cumbria, and 5 of the 23 in South Lakeland, will qualify for a new cash payment for rural pharmacies.

Kendal Town Council expressed concern that these cuts could lead to pharmacy closures, and passed a motion opposing the government's decision.

Tim said: "This decision by Kendal Town Council shows the real concern that our communities have about the impact of the government's short-sighted decision to slash funding for our community pharmacies.

"Community pharmacies play a key role in our health system, providing advice and helping to prevent illness, as well as dispensing drugs. If pharmacies are forced to close, there will be even more pressure on our local GP and A&E services."