IT IS extremely disappointing that the Conservative Government has taken the decision to raise the cost of NHS prescriptions with effect from April.

Hard-pressed families are already struggling to cope with the growing cost of living crisis. VAT increases, energy prices rocketing and the rising cost of petrol.

What makes it such a bitter pill to swallow is that prescriptions are free to everyone in Wales, Northern Ireland and, shortly, in Scotland.

The increased cost of charges could also act as a barrier to some people taking necessary medication which will be detrimental to their health.

The current system is totally unfair and the only right thing now the Government should do is to abolish prescription charges in England altogether.

Andrew Coles, Farmington Drive, Witney