Rennie backs tax rise move as part of ‘virtuous circle’ for wider society

Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie has backed the prospect of tax rises in Scotland insisting it is part of a “virtuous cycle” that will benefit all society.

But he insisted that any hike must be targeted to fix problems with public services as part of a “contract with the people”, in an article for the Scotsman today.

Nicola Sturgeon gave the strongest hint yet she is ready to raise income tax next year with an “options paper” last week which could see Scots earning £31,000 pay more. The 0 Willie Rennie: Money would fix issues with public services Lib Dems back a more radical one pence rise in the basic rate,

Mr Rennie stated tax rises should “raise the funds we need to provide services on a common front.”

“It is about a balance between public and personal expenditure, and about the ability of people to afford to live their daily life and the ability of the government to afford to provide the services that we all need and depend on,” he states.

“A tax rise is not an indication of more to come but a contract with people to fix a problem and to invest in a solution. An investment that liberates people.”

He adds: “A tax rise should be seen to have a purpose.

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