Budget Resolutions and Economic Situation

Debate between Adam Afriyie and Sheila Gilmore

Wednesday 18th March 2015 Commons Chamber

[Adam Afriyie (Windsor) (Con)]

Does the hon. Lady not recognise that when certain taxes are cut, the overall take by the Exchequer increases, as has been demonstrated over the past five years?

[Sheila Gilmore]

We have heard the argument that if we reduce taxes, we get more revenue in. Of course, it is usually heard in relation to the 50p rate of tax, but that was a very poor example. It hardly had any effect, and so many people made their own arrangements before and after the announcement was made on reducing the rate again that we cannot tell what really happened.

It is important that we should have a discussion about the kind of values we want and the kind of society we want to live in. There has been a similar debate north of the border, where we have a Government who are trying to suggest that, although they do not necessarily want to cut taxes, it is possible to have fantastic services without ever putting up taxes. That will also leave the public confused about what can really be achieved.

Consumer Rights Bill

Debate between Adam Afriyie and Sheila Gilmore

Tuesday 28th January 2014 Commons Chamber

[Adam Afriyie (Windsor) (Con)]

I support the Bill because the principles that guided it are exactly what the country needs in order to get back on its feet after 13 years of what could be described as misappropriation of the public purse by the Labour Government.

[Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab)]

I am utterly astounded that the hon. Gentleman should believe that this is the legislation that will put the country back on its feet. The Bill is a consolidating measure. Surely we need something a bit more dramatic.