In her latest column, Weald of Kent MP Katie Lam has expressed her strong views on Rachel Reeves’ recent Budget. In a passionate and thought-provoking piece, Lam takes aim at the Labour MP’s proposals and highlights the potential consequences for the people of Kent.
Lam begins by acknowledging the importance of the Budget in shaping the future of our country, especially in these challenging times. She emphasizes the need for responsible and well-thought-out decisions that will benefit all sections of society. However, she argues that Rachel Reeves’ Budget falls short of this expectation.
Lam points out that Reeves’ proposal to increase corporation tax to 26% would have a detrimental impact on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Weald of Kent. As a strong advocate for local businesses, Lam believes that this move would stifle growth and hinder job creation, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
Furthermore, Lam raises concerns about the proposed changes to the National Insurance (NI) system. She argues that the increase in NI contributions for both employees and employers would have a direct impact on the pockets of hard-working families and businesses. Lam believes that this is not the time to burden the people with additional taxes, and instead, the focus should be on supporting them through these tough times.
Lam also takes issue with Reeves’ plan to cut the Universal Credit uplift, which has been a lifeline for many families during the pandemic. She stresses that this cut would push many vulnerable households into poverty, undoing the progress made in recent years. Lam believes that the government should prioritize protecting the most vulnerable in society, rather than making cuts that would have a severe impact on their well-being.
In her column, Lam also addresses Reeves’ proposal to introduce a windfall tax on companies that have made large profits during the pandemic. She argues that this move would be counterproductive and could discourage businesses from investing in the UK. Lam believes that we should instead encourage companies to continue investing in our economy, creating jobs and boosting growth.
Lam also highlights the potential consequences of Reeves’ plans for the housing market. She expresses her concern that the proposed changes to the stamp duty holiday could lead to a slump in the housing market, making it even more challenging for first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder. Lam believes that we should be encouraging homeownership and providing support for those looking to buy their first home, rather than making it more difficult for them.
In her column, Lam also addresses the issue of climate change, which has become a pressing concern for many. While she agrees with the need to take action and reduce carbon emissions, she argues that Reeves’ proposal to increase fuel duty would disproportionately affect rural communities. Lam stresses that we should find ways to tackle climate change without placing an additional burden on those who are already struggling.
In conclusion, Lam makes a passionate plea to Rachel Reeves and the Labour Party to reconsider their Budget proposals. She believes that these measures would have a severe impact on the people of Kent, particularly those in the Weald, who are already facing numerous challenges. Lam urges Reeves to work with the government to find solutions that will benefit all sections of society and help our economy recover from the pandemic.
In her final words, Lam reminds us that we are all in this together, and it is only by working together that we can overcome the challenges we face. She urges everyone to put aside their political differences and come together for the greater good of the country. Lam’s column is a powerful reminder of the responsibility our leaders have in shaping the future of our nation, and we can only hope that her message is heard loud and clear.
