Treasury rejects link between surgery cuts memo and proposed healthcare tax

Announcement on proposed levy to be outlined in October

Treasury says there is “no conspiracy” linking a leaked Manx Care memo - which revealed potential cuts to elective surgery sessions - with an announcement of a new healthcare tax.

Manx Care says it regrets the letter was shared but insists there are no reductions to the number of planned patients going through surgical theatres.

Minister Alex Allinson was asked whether it was a 'strategic decision' to make the public accept the levy.

In October, he is due to deliver a speech setting out the proposals.

However, any levy would not be introduced until at least the 2027/28 financial year, and would be aimed at addressing the funding gap.

Dr Allinson says he believes there is public appetite to pay more: