The Association of Medical Insurers and Intermediaries (AMII) has pledged to lobby the government for health insurance to be exempt from Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) as a single industry voice.
The AMII Chairman, Stuart Scullion, made the announcement at the organisation's AGM which was held yesterday at Whittlebury Hall, Northamptonshire.
Speaking at the AGM, Scullion said: "Sue Weir and the Medicash team have worked hard to spearhead a campaign calling for health insurance to be exempt from IPT.
"From discussions with our insurer and provider members we are aware that several of them have met with HM Treasury to lobby for a review of IPT.
"We believe the success of this lobbying will be determined by consolidated and continued pressure on Government to reconsider their position on Insurance Premium Taxation attracted to health insurance products.
"AMII is perfectly placed to take the lead and co-ordinate those efforts as a single, representational voice on behalf of the industry."
Scullion added: "The Chancellor's decision to include health insurance under a general insurance umbrella is illogical. Health insurance is an elective insurance - people choose to protect their health. Increasing IPT will only discourage people from health insurance options, and deter businesses from providing health benefits for their staff.
"As people are deterred from health insurance options, they are driven to an over burdened and over stretched National Health Service. This does not make sense for the long term wellbeing of the nation.
"This is a real opportunity for us to work together to make a difference, we need a concerted effort to continue this conversation with the Chancellor.
"AMII will be making representations to Government to express our views."
Further reading
Budget 2016: PMI experts criticise IPT rise as 'counter-productive'
IPT increase should not see a flood of changes
