STEVENSON SLAMS INCREASED TAXES FOR BANFF & BUCHAN’S LOWEST EARNERS

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson today slammed Gordon Brown’s Labour Government for the scrapping of the 10% tax rate on low income earners. From April 6th all wage earners will pay 20% tax on any earnings over the income tax allowance threshold currently sat at £5,225.

This policy has come under harsh criticism in Scotland as figures show that 324,000 people in Scotland or 12% of all Scottish tax payers will see their tax double. With those earning up to £18,500 per annum set to lose out it will be seen as a bitter blow to many in Scotland where average earnings are lower than large swathes of the UK.

Speaking today Mr Stevenson said

“In a week that sees the SNP Government promising a freeze in council taxes and a reduction in prescription charges aimed at reducing hardship on the most vulnerable sections of society such as the old and sick we see the Labour Party doing the opposite.

“With many of the residents of Banff & Buchan facing low average earnings due to the economic challenges faced by our coastal and rural communities this rise in tax will be a bitter pill to swallow. While the SNP Government is keen and active in putting more money back into the pockets of ordinary Scots it seems the Labour Party is keen on taking it back off them.

“A deep contrast between the two Governments is there for all to see. One working in Scotland, with the people of Scotland, for the people of Scotland and the other based in the South East of England working hard for the people of South East England.”