Chancellor Rachel Reeves has ordered an investigation into private dentistry costs amid concerns that patients are being overcharged. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been instructed to examine hidden fees, overtreatment, and a lack of transparency regarding prices, ownership, and quality of care.
The probe follows reports that some private practices are offering NHS places to children only if their parents sign up as private patients. Reeves stated: 'The scourge of hidden costs, lack of transparency and overtreatment has blighted families in need of dental treatment for too long.'
The Chancellor also confirmed that the government will act on veterinary costs after a CMA investigation found prices had risen at nearly twice the rate of inflation. Pet owners are often unaware of costs or not given estimates for expensive treatments. Further details will be announced in due course.
In addition, motorists will soon see fuel price data on mapping apps and comparison sites from next year, following a CMA recommendation. Fuel providers must report price changes in near real time, potentially saving households £40 annually or up to 6p per litre.
Reeves is set to deliver her first Budget next week, focusing on cutting NHS waiting lists, national debt, and the cost of living. The Mirror has campaigned to save NHS dentistry as patients resort to pulling out their own teeth due to lack of access.
