Scrapping free Lateral Flow Tests would cause "cost of living with Covid crisis"

The Liberal Democrats have said that scrapping free Lateral Flow Testing would create a "cost of living with Covid crisis" for millions as the Government issued a non-denial denial of reports of a proposal to scrap free tests.

Newcastle Liberal Democrats Health Spokesperson Dr Wendy Taylor is calling for free Lateral Flow Tests to remain for as long as the Government are asking people with Coronavirus to self-isolate.

Councillor Taylor said: "It seems this Government is happy to hand out billions in crooked Covid contracts to their chums, but intends to scrap free covid tests plunging millions into a cost of living with Covid crisis.

"Scrapping free tests when cases are at record levels would be hugely counter-productive and would hit those who can least afford it hardest, at a time when families are already being clobbered by rising taxes and energy bills.

"It's clear that the Government's left-hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing. Ministers have already confirmed to our Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper MP that they will end free lateral flows but then said on national TV that they "didn't recognise" reports - a classic non-denial denial.

"Now is not the time to throw in the towel in the fight against Covid. The Government must guarantee free Lateral Flow Tests for as long as they are asking people to self-isolate."