MP Lewis wants tax reductions based on Browne’s excessive revenue collection.
Member of Parliament Richard Lewis wants Prime Minister Gaston Browne to reconsider recent tax increases and instead rely on alternative revenue measures promised in the March 2023 Budget.
According to Lewis, these measures, which include improved collection of existing taxes, reduction of discretionary waivers, and cutting wasteful spending, were proposed to boost revenue and negate the need for any new taxes or increases in the ABST.
Lewis argues that these alternatives have provided enough new revenue to address fiscal needs, including salary increases, without placing an additional tax burden on citizens and residents.
Therefore, he believes that it is unethical for the government to resort to taxing the public when there are other viable options available.
Lewis highlights that Gaston Browne had promised in his election rallies and manifesto that there would be no increase in the ABST.
However, he said the recent tax increases contradict this pledge. Lewis believes that the government is needlessly taxing citizens and residents to rake in extra revenue, which is well in excess of what the Prime Minister claimed was required.
Moreover, Lewis questions the government’s motives and demands to know why they are brutally attacking citizens’ pockets.
He asserts that it is time for the government to provide answers to the people of the country and to ease the squeeze on suffering residents and small business owners. He concludes by calling for a tax reset and a more common-sense approach to managing the country’s finances.
This story was first published by Antigua News on April 15, 2024: antigua.news/2024/04/15/mp-lewis-wants-tax-reductions-based-on-brownes-excessive-revenue-collection. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
‘They Can’t Dictate That’: Freeland Rejects Player Pressure Over National Coach
Freeland defends the coaching staff and says players should demonstrate their value through training and performance.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Search Ends as All Four Juveniles Who Escaped Bolans Police Station Return to Police Custody
Police apprehended three of the juveniles during a search operation in Liberta on Thursday morning, less than a day after the fourth surrendered to authorities.
By Cory Wayland
Farmers Given 90 Days to Plant as Government Launches 102-Acre Land-Clearing Programme
Antigua launches a 102-acre agricultural land-clearing programme requiring beneficiaries to establish viable crops within 90 days of land preparation.
By Cory Wayland
Freeland Blames Poor Player Commitment for Antigua and Barbuda’s Basketball Withdrawal
Basketball president acknowledges unpaid stipends but says repeated low practice attendance drove the decision to withdraw.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments
Be the first to comment.