Oral Answers to Questions

Andrea Leadsom Excerpts

Tuesday 12th October 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Gauke]

As I said earlier, we do not currently have the capability to examine the situation on a household basis, but we do need to make difficult decisions. If the Opposition want to oppose each and every cut, including in the child benefit that is given to some of the wealthiest in society, they can take that position, but we are prepared to take those tough decisions.

[Andrea Leadsom (South Northamptonshire) (Con)]

Does my hon. Friend think that the Opposition believe it would be fairer to tax the lower-paid and give the tax revenue to the higher-paid?

[Mr Gauke]

That appears to be their solution given that, as I understand it, they still advocate the increase in the national insurance contributions that we are going to counter by raising thresholds. If the Opposition wish to take that position, so be it.