Diane Abbott warns Labour over tax hike plans

Warning: Diane Abbott
Jack Taylor/Getty Images
Kate Proctor6 March 2017
WEST END FINAL

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Diane Abbott has issued a warning to senior Labour figures over a proposed tax rise to pay for the NHS.

The shadow home secretary said her party needed to be “very cautious” about asking people to pay extra for healthcare. Her remarks before Wednesday’s Budget reveal a split among the party’s top ranks after shadow chancellor John McDonnell hinted at an NHS tax.

During TV and radio interviews, Rebecca Long-Bailey, shadow business secretary and Mr McDonnell’s former deputy, said that most people would not argue over “paying an extra pound” for the NHS. However, Ms Abbott told BBC radio: “Those of us who remember the 1992 campaign — a number of us in the Labour leadership do remember it — are cautious about the question of putting up tax.”

Asked if Ms Long-Bailey, who is being touted as a future party leader, was wrong to suggest Labour was considering a ringfenced NHS tax, she said “it’s important to consider all options”.

A shadow Treasury spokesman said a tax for the NHS was an idea and not Labour Party policy.

Jeremy Corbyn tweeted today that there was “nothing missing, nothing hidden” about his tax affairs after allegations that he omitted £40,000 of income.

He was reportedly entitled to an extra £39,272 a year as leader of the Opposition. Labour said a payment of £27,192 had been recorded on his declaration.

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