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DHSC in deficit again

Despite additional 11 million pounds in last budget

The Department of Health and Social Care exceeded its budget by £9.5 million this year.

Tynwald will be asked to grant the extra money when it sits later this month.

Government's highest spending department is well used to being in the red.

Last year, it overspent by £11.1m, and the year before, it was £9.9m.

The DHSC's overall funding was increased by £11m in the 2017-18 budget.

Minister Kate Beecroft, whose resignation from the post was announced yesterday, has fought to reduce the deficit since her appointment, commenting frequently on a 'frustrating' lack of progress in cost-savings.

Ideas introduced under her tenure include a plan to raise prescription charges, cutting funding for Meals on Wheels, and a voluntary resignation scheme for Noble's Hospital staff. 

The search is now on for Mrs Beecroft's successor. 

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