Hughes implies that the 50p rate could be dropped
David Blackburn 7:24pm
The 50p rate is dominating the media backdrop to the Lib Dem conference. Simon Hughes
has made the latest intervention, telling Sky News that the wealthy could and should be taxed in other ways if the 50p rate was “not very tax efficient”. He emphasised the importance of
fairness by adding that you “don’t start (tax cuts) by taking the tax away from those who have the broadest shoulders.”
Hughes’ position mirrors that of Clegg, as detailed in an interview with the Independent. This episode is a further indication that the economic arguments against the 50p rate are beginning to hold sway. Ed Miliband’s insistence that the rate be retained is a risk in search of short-term political gain, a risk that the usually provocative Hughes has declined to take.
In other Lib Dem conference news, delegates have voted against the coalition's reform of the employment support allowance and moves are being made against the government's NHS reforms. Nick Clegg will address a conference rally shortly. Here is his speech.
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tom jones
September 17th, 2011 7:35pm Report this commentWhat annoys me so much about this article is the last line "read his speech here.." the speech is hasn't even given yet?!! It's not just Clegg, all ministers leaking their entire speeches a day in advance is getting more and more frustrating. When you hear the actual speech, you know the bulk/all of it already. Stop playing the media game, ministers!!!
Rhoda Klapp
September 17th, 2011 7:37pm Report this commentTranslation from Hughesian: Can we find a tax which hurts the 'rich' but doesn't apply to ME?????
Nick
September 17th, 2011 9:08pm Report this commentIt is very simple. I have 4 ideas and the cash to start a couple of businesses. IP related so I have a choice as to where to incorporate. None of the parties want me. They just want the money. That is the message. The answer? Not in the UK
Chris lancashire
September 18th, 2011 10:34am Report this commentGiven that this tax probably raises no revenue, acts as a disincentive to entrepreneurs and has internationally mobile business leaving in droves even thicko Hughes gets the message. Not that his opinion counts for a great deal.
This was one of the last acts of lunacy from idiot Brown done for political spite. Repeal it now, don't attempt to replace it with anything and, no, I'm never likely to have to pay it.
mick
September 18th, 2011 6:04pm Report this commenti suspect osborne has already decided not to cut the tax rate until later in the parliament so clegg will claim a non existent victor
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