Mike took local 10p tax concerns to heart of government

22 May 2008

Newly elected Labour councillor for Arbury, Cllr Mike Todd-Jones, recently took the concerns of Arbury and other Cambridge residents over the abolition of the 10p tax band directly to the heart of government.

Mike said "During the recent City Council election campaign I promised many people in Arbury affected by the abolition of the 10p tax band that I would raise their concerns direct to the government and the Prime Minister, and via our parliamentary candidate Daniel Zeichner.

"Ironically, as a part-time worker, I was also directly affected. First, I wrote letters on the issue to Labour leaders and representatives on Labour's National Executive Committee." Then, at a reception at 10 Downing Street following the elections, I was able to personally give the Prime Minister my letter, including my payslips (!), on behalf of everyone in Arbury affected by the tax changes.

"I'm very pleased that the government listened to me and others and acted swiftly to compensate those on low incomes affected by the tax changes. The recent announcement by the Chancellor that the personal tax allowance will be raised by £600 is very welcome, along with further measures to come that will help low-paid workers.