The government plans to increase prescription charges as part of a series of NHS price rises, health minister Rosie Winterton announced today.

The decision to add 10p to the cost of a prescription for the seventh year running will result in a £6.50 charge on each prescribed medicine.

The rise is one of a series of price increases being made across NHS charges and will generate more than £400m for the health service.

From April 1, prescription prepayment certificates will rise 50p to £33.90 for a four-month certificate, and increase £1.40 (to £93.20) for a 12-month certificate

NHS dentistry charges will also go up with the maximum cost for a single course of treatment rising from £378 to £384.

For those on low incomes who need glasses or contact lenses, vouchers to help with the cost will increase by 2.5%.

Ms Winterton justified the "modest" increase, saying it would provide a substantial amount of money for the NHS.

"We have held the increase to 10 pence for the seventh consecutive year, well below the rate of inflation, to ensure that people can get the prescriptions they need at prices they can afford," she said.

"Through our extensive exemption arrangements, 86% of prescription items are dispensed free, with another 5% dispensed to people with prepayment certificates at no additional charge.

"This modest increase will contribute £452m towards the cost of the NHS."