Mike Pringle MSP Demands Tax Cuts to Help Beat Recession

12.00.00pm GMT Tue 18th Nov 2008

Mike Pringle MSP has called for a cut in income tax to help people on low and middle incomes beat the recession.

He said all parties in the Scottish Parliament should work together to use the Parliament's tax variance powers and cut income tax by 2p to help local families and to stimulate an ailing economy. The cut would put more than £300 per year back into the pocket of the average Scottish earner and provide a significant fiscal stimulus to the economy.

Mike Pringle said:

"Inflation is at its highest for years, residents of south Edinburgh tell me that they are struggling with rising fuel and housing costs.

"I am calling for a tax cut of 2p in the pound. If Scotland's parties work together and use the Parliament's tax variance powers we can help Scotland's hard pressed families by putting cash back in their pockets.

"Too many people are faced with the prospect of either eating properly or heating their homes. Action is needed now to help local people who are struggling with rising prices.

"Cutting income tax will give residents and our local economy a boost at a time when it is desperately needed."