IFS Figures Show 7 Out Of 10 Households Best Off Under The Liberal Democrats

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 28th Apr 2005

Responding to the report published today by the Institute of Fiscal Studies entitled "Proposed Tax and Benefit Changes: Winners and losers in the next term", Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, Vince Cable said:

"The IFS have clearly stated that 70% of households would be financially best off under Liberal Democrat plans, compared to those of the Conservatives and Labour.

"This report further demonstrates that Liberal Democrat proposals are also best for pensioners, helping those pensioner on the lowest incomes the most through the introduction of the citizen's pension, replacement of Council Tax by Local Income Tax and an extra £100 per month for those over 75.

"Other Liberal Democrat policies, such as the scrapping of tuition and top-up fees and the introduction of free personal care for the elderly, will also benefit many financially. These policies have not been taken account of in this report.

"The Liberal Democrat tax and spending plans at this election are fully costed, affordable and fair. The Liberal Democrats are the real alternative at this General Election."