Nearly seven in ten Tory voters are calling on ministers to abandon the proposed 20 percent taxi tax, according to a recent poll. The levy, which would add VAT to private hire taxi and minicab fares, has been met with widespread opposition.
Tory Voters Oppose Unfair Taxi Tax
The poll revealed that 68 percent of Tory voters believe the proposed taxi tax is unfair. If implemented, it would cost a typical user an additional £200 per year.
Strong Opposition from Tory Voters
Furthermore, almost two-thirds of Tory voters from the last election stated that they would view any party attempting to impose the tax increase unfavorably. This sentiment was echoed by nearly eight in ten low-income households and individuals with mobility issues, who said they would struggle to afford the additional cost.
Pressure Mounts on PM and Chancellor
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt are facing mounting pressure to abandon the proposed tax increase ahead of March's budget. The British Beer and Pub Association and the Federation of Small Businesses have warned that the tax could have detrimental effects on jobs and livelihoods.
Legal Battle Leads to VAT Responsibility
The Treasury has agreed to consult on the taxi tax following a legal battle with Uber. This means that taxi companies will be responsible for charging VAT on fares.
Tory MPs Speak Out Against the Tax
Former minister Paul Scully expressed concern, stating, "The tax burden is already at a 70-year high, and we're sleepwalking into a new tax for which there is no need." Fellow Tory MP Ben Bradley also criticized the proposed tax, calling it "un-Conservative" and highlighting the financial strain it would place on individuals already struggling with the high cost of living.
