UK’s Johnson Raises Tax to Fund Social Care, Breaking Election Pledge

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves 10 Downing Street to deliver a statement on Afghanistan in the House of Commons, in London on Sept. 6, 2021. Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Tuesday he is raising taxes to pay for the cost of care for the elderly and disabled people, breaking a key election pledge.

In a statement to the House of Commons, Johnson announced a new UK-wide 1.25 percent health and social care levy, which is based on National Insurance contributions.