Birkenhead MP Frank Field’s new revolt on 10p tax rate

Jul 1 2009 Birkenhead News

BIRKENHEAD MP Frank Field has launched a new protest against the government as part of his calls for full compensation for low-paid workers who lost out in the abolition of the 10p tax rate.

His move could force another embarrassing climb-down by Gordon Brown and Chancellor Alistair Darling.

Last year Mr Field led a partially- successful revolt on the issue, resulting in £2.7bn going back to wage-earners.

But 3.4 million of the poorest are still around £2 to £3.50 a week worse off.

Mr Field said:”That may not seem much to some people, but it is a lot to struggling families. And it represents a huge injustice because people like me are better off while the poorest are penalised.”

Mr Field has now tabled a blocking motion to a crucial clause in the upcoming finance bill which allows the Treasury to levy taxes. It is unlikely to be passed, but if enough MPs support him it would send a strong message to ministers.