Lib Dems criticise Brown's unfair, un-green budget

2.14.35pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 22nd Mar 2007

Local Lib Dems have reacted to Gordon Brown's budget. Lib Dems have highlighted that the budget hits the lowest paid hardest and that under Labour the wealth gap between rich and poor is already higher than it was under Margaret Thatcher. Lib Dems also believe that the budget doesn't go far enough to tackle the green agenda.

Councillor Paul Scriven, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, said: -

"This is a candy-floss budget, it looks good at first but as soon as we look behind the headlines it dissolves and we see the real agenda"

"The income tax changes announced in the budget will mean that those on low incomes will end up paying more in income tax. This will only serve to further increase the wealth gap in the UK that has become wider under Labour. This budget will increase inequality and many people in Sheffield will be worse off"

"The budget is also a missed opportunity in the battle against climate change. It doesn't go far enough to reform the tax system. We must start to move to green taxes making those who pollute most pay most, which would then allow us to deliver real cuts in income tax for those on the lowest and middle incomes"

"This budget is a wasted opportunity and not in the interests of the people of Sheffield"