Articles and Speeches
 

Another Bad Budget
07-Apr-06, Windsor Express Article.

My motivation when entering politics was to try to do something for the least well off and most vulnerable in our society. Many of the elderly, those with disabilities and mental health issues rely on the state to support them during times of difficulty.

After listening to Gordon Brown’s tenth budget I note that it did little to assist those in society who most need it. Having promised before the election that pensioners would receive £200 to help them pay their council tax, he has now cynically chosen to withdrawn this help. This will be a great worry to many pensioners in Windsor.

In addition it is as complicated and intrusive as ever to attempt to get tax credits and dozens of other means tested benefits; especially for those struggling with some form of learning difficulties.

And with this government enjoying tax revenue at the highest level ever in our history, one is entitled to expect substantial improvements to schools, the fight against crime and the health service. It is striking that the Chancellor failed to mention the NHS even once during health service in over 1 hour of speaking.

It was a disappointed that Mr Brown’s tenth budget promised so little for the country. Whilst hidden taxes, high national insurance contributions and increasing levels of income taxes certainly make Mr Brown one of the greediest Chancellors in history, it is frustrating that this money is not finding its way to those who need it most.