Cut income tax by two pence in the pound - Scott (Aberdeen North Liberal Democrats)

Aberdeen North Liberal Democrats <anne.carmichael@btinternet.com>

Cut income tax by two pence in the pound - Scott

September 15, 2008 11:03 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

In his first major speech since becoming leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Tavish Scott has challenged the other political parties in Scotland to work with him to cut the income tax rate by two pence in the pound.

Tavish Scott believes that as families across Scotland are having to cut their budgets because of the current economic climate the government should do the same.

Cutting income tax in Scotland by two pence in the pound would mean that the average Scot would save over £300 on their annual tax bill.

Speaking at the Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth, Tavish Scott said:

"It's the measure of a political party that it can respond to urgent new demands. That's why this Party needs to be ready. People are hurting now. The British economy is in meltdown. People want to hear what we can do for them.

"People are tightening their belts. It's right that Government does as well. Families are feeling the pinch. They are having to make sacrifices just to make ends meet. We Liberal Democrats will respond to that.

"Families right across Scotland are being hit hard by rising prices. Energy costs up by half, food costs up by 30 pounds a month, inflation the highest for 16 years. We can't let this go on. We can't turn our backs. We've got to find ways to help people out.

"We have to say what can be done to put money back into peoples' pockets. We should use the Scottish Parliament's power to cut income tax by two pence in the pound. Saving the average Scot more than three hundred pounds a year. Putting money back in the pockets of people who need it most. That is my practical ambition.

"The Scottish Government's budget comes out in a few days time. But that Budget cannot be 'business as usual'. It has to cut the cost of living. It has to put families first.

"So this is my challenge to Scotland's other parties. Are they up for helping people across Scotland? Do they support hard pressed families at this tough time? Will they work with us to make it happen?"