R esponding to the publication of a House of Commons Committee report which highlights an underfunded adult social care sector, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Birmingham Ladywood and Party Health spokesperson, Lee Dargue, said:
"We continually hear about how care workers work many hours, but do not get the pay or support they need, leading to a high turnover of staff.
"In addition to this, young carers often forego education and social lives to care for family members, with little recognition and even less rest. Under Lib Dem proposals, carers would receive additional help for a much needed break.
"The country is in desperate need for a long-term plan to fund the increasing demand for care. That is why the Liberal Democrats propose putting a penny on income tax to raise the cash needed to support care workers and protect the future of care services.
"The public supports this policy from the Liberal Democrats. It's time the government listened and acted."
Commenting on the Kings Fund report into social attitudes towards changing how we fund the NHS, Health Spokesperson in the West Midlands, Lee Dargue said:
"The Liberal Democrats have long argued for a dedicated Health and Care tax, to properly fund our NHS and Care services. The Prime Minister and her cabinet are actively discussing this Liberal Democrats proposal, and the Kings Fund report shows growing public backing. We should introduce this change at the earliest opportunity.
"We argue that a penny in the pound on income tax, a proposal growing in support by taxpayers. As the NHS approaches its 70th Birthday, we are in urgent need for an immediate increase in funding, and a long-term, sustainable solution to the funding crisis.
"With a dedicated Health and Care tax, we can ensure people continue to get the care they need, when they need it most. The Liberal Democrats have changed the debate around NHS funding - we need these changes implemented to safeguard our NHS and Care services now, and in the future."
Responding to the announcement that Jaguar Land Rover have blamed Brexit for the 'slump' that has seen them cut 1,000 jobs, Parliamentary Spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats in Birmingham Ladywood constituency Lee Dargue said:
"A drop in sales of over a quarter so far in 2018 is a huge loss to Jaguar Land Rover, and the many businesses in the supply chain across Birmingham City Centre and the West Midlands.
