Katy Gordon

Liberal Democrats in Glasgow North have called for income tax cuts to help struggling families weather the recession. Tavish Scott, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Robert Brown MSP and Katy Gordon met local residents at Cadder Community Centre on Friday 21st November to talk about how rising prices for food and fuel were affecting them. The number one issue was the struggle to cope with high electricity and gas bills when wages and benefits aren’t keeping up. One local resident said:

“I’m worried about my next bill. But I can’t afford not to heat my house, “

Another was unimpressed that while they were struggling on low incomes, “ lots of these bank chairmen are still going to be getting their bonusesl”

Speaking after a meeting, Katy Gordon, Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson said that people in Glasgow North have endured a year of rocketting fuel, transport and food prices and many were still out of pocket following the government’s decision to double the starting rate of income tax. She commented:

“On Monday 24th November, the Chancellor presents his Prebudget Report to Parliament. Liberal Democrats will be pressing for permanent tax cuts for people on low and middle incomes. We will be looking for radical changes in the tax system which lock in lower rates of income tax for good.

“To make these tax cuts lasting, they have to be funded. That means shifting the tax burden onto pollution and ending the tax perks and loopholes enjoyed by the highest earners.

“We are worried that the Government will simply introduce temporary tax cuts, paid for by borrowing, which will disappear once we start to come out of recession.

“Now is the time for a genuine and radical change to the tax system. Liberal Democrats will be pressing for that and, having spoken to many residents in Glasgow North, I know it is what people here want.

“We believe, however, that an area where borrowing should be allowed is investment in new buildings and facilities that are needed. I am very keen to see people’s homes properly insulated and more affordable homes built for people who need them.

“As well as boosting jobs and the economy, it will help to save money in the future.”