OK, few chats with some people, especially Glen Broadhurst and hows this for an alternative idea to the existing proposals. It wont be popular with the people or the existing states as both must pay, but thats life. 1) Drop the number of deputies from 45 to 21. 2) Introduce island wide voting for these deputies. To stand for election each deputy must show what qualify them to run the affairs of the island and its economy, history, culture etc. This would take some fleshing out but I expect something like 4 year terms with half the house up for re-election every second year for four year terms. 3) Double the salary of those in power. If you want a quality executive you need to pay for it. 4) Introduce proper audits of all states expenditure, especially capital projects. Also an audit of the current state capital reserve investment policy to make sure it is effectively utilized. Also an audit of the Civil Service. Talent should be awarded and dead wood burned. 5) I have no issue with the work for the dole ideas put forward. Wont make a huge material difference to the economy but i think it is the right thing. 6) We need some solid way of developing new industry in Guernsey. Possibly some sore of incentive scheme for start up companies to locate in Guernsey. Two slightly offbeat and personal, but probably less likely to occur ideas. 7) Sack the entire tax department and outsource it to a small accounts department from the private sector, who would do a far better job, on time and cheaper. (personal dig but justified I think) 8) Legalese, regulate and tax weed. All those crumbling vineries will have a new profitable crop to grow. We still have a lot of tomato growing experience on the island and weed is very closely related to tomatoes. This could also tap into the refined medicinal market, and revitalize the tourist industry. We still have growing an tourism facilities so it could be done relatively quickly before they are all lost. There are three options I see for increasing states revenue. 1) Introduce GST at 5%. Increase the tax threshold to £20,000. This has pros and cons, some of which have been touched on in the group, mostly ignored in favor of reteric. It would however HAVE to exclude (or zero rate) essential household foodstuffs, heating, non luxury clothing and your primary place of residence. 2) Increase the basic tax rate to 22.5%, with an increased threshold of £20,000. 3) Introduce a 2 tiered tax system with increased threshold and amounts over SAY £60,000 taxed at 30%. Possibly the base rate could go up to 22.5% and also have a second tier of tax but at a higher level. Say up to £20,000 tax free, From £20,000 to £80,000 at 22.5% then all earnings over £80,000 at 27.5%. I am entirely not in favor of a pole tax or housing tax. The housing market is in enough trouble as it is. I honestly cant remember the other alternatives being debated. I guess paid parking and that kinda stuff.
Posted on: Thu, 06 Mar 2014 19:23:56 +0000
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