Lib Dems: Tory tax plans a muddle

Thursday, 19, Oct 2006 12:00

Conservative proposals to introduce tax cuts worth £21 billion a year are irresponsible and muddled, the Liberal Democrats have argued.

Speaking as the Tory tax reform commission publishes its report, Lib Dem leader Menzies Campbell said: "Tory tax plans are in a muddle."

The report made "no mention of green taxation", he noted, saying: "David Cameron needs to recognise that empty rhetoric is no substitute for concrete proposals."

"Under Labour we have had hidden tax rises and from the Conservatives we can expect open cuts in public services," Sir Menzies argued.

He said the Lib Dems were the only party with a clear tax policy outlining how cuts for low and middle incomes would be paid for by increases for the wealthiest and green taxes.

Lib Dem Treasury spokesman Vince Cable added: "It is utterly irresponsible to present plans for swingeing tax cuts without saying who would pay for them."