LETTER - Lib Dem Fantasists (27/09/04)

Dear oh dear. I see from the County Gazette (postbag, Sept. 24th) the lib-dem fantasists are out in force again. It is hard to believe, isn't it, that they belong to the same party that at their conference this week decided to spend more of the taxpayers money on silly ideas. Have you seen the list? This is just a few of the 640 new taxes they want.

Local income tax adding an average £630 to each household's bills, regional income tax, national income tax of 50 per cent, higher council tax bands, 200 per cent council tax on second homes, higher parish precepts on council tax, new water levy on council tax, dog tax, (What? A DOG tax?) graduate tax, higher National Insurance, smokers' tax, water meters tax and VAT on new homes.

Aviation fuel tax, higher airport departure tax, abolition of all duty free concessions, hotel tax, tourist parking tax, and VAT on all flights. Congestion taxes, new taxes on 4x4 vehicles, speed camera tax, and new taxes on parking to shop and parking at work.

Oh, and I nearly forgot. Join the EU and let them decide any future taxes! Well done lads!! You really know how to look after our money for us

John Smeaton, Conservative Group Spokesman, Environment & Transport