MP blasted over 10p tax stance

5:13pm Wednesday 14th May 2008

A BOLTON MP has been criticised for his stance on the Government's decision to abolish the 10p income tax band.

David Crausby is accused of "changing his mind" about the controversial move by the Conservative Candidate who will challenge for his seat at the next general election.

Deborah Dunleavy, says she is "amazed"

Mr Crausby has admitted Labour "made a mistake" - because he voted in favour of the Budget which included the move.

"He is of course quite right that it is an appalling act to increase the tax burden on the lower paid in order to reduce it for the more well off," she said.

"But my questions to him are: Why did he vote for the budget last year that proposed this very thing?

"Did he not read or understand it. Has he changed his mind. If so, why now. Is it more important to help the less well off this year than last year when Gordon Brown proposed it?"

But Mr Crausby said the consequences of the tax band cut - which has hit low earners and the elderly - were not known at the time of the Budget when he voted it through. "My own view is that we made a mistake and should put it right as soon as possible,"

Mr Crausby said.

"I've received a lot of correspondence and I have written to ask constituents how it has affected them so I can put that to the Government.

"Yes I voted for the Budget - it would be a bit odd if I hadn't as it's a matter of confidence - but it doesn't mean that in reality you vote for every time."