James McMurdock, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said the VAT on defibrillators should be removed for community groups, sports clubs, and small businesses.

He made the call to mark Restart a Heart Day, as more than 40,000 people suffer cardiac arrests outside of hospitals each year, with only 10 per cent surviving.

Survival rates can rise to over 70 per cent with defibrillator use within the first few minutes, but many areas lack access.

In South Basildon and East Thurrock, more than 70 per cent of postcodes fall outside the British Heart Foundation's recommended three to five minute response window.

Mr McMurdock said: "When every minute counts, access to a defibrillator could mean the difference between life and death.

"VAT is a clear and unnecessary barrier to communities doing the right thing and installing these lifesaving devices.

"Removing it could make defibrillators more accessible, save lives, and deliver long-term savings to the NHS.

"Local volunteers and community groups do incredible work raising funds for defibrillators, but they shouldn't be taxed for wanting to help save lives.

"I hope the Government will take this simple, practical step to make our towns and villages safe."