Today’s spring statement won’t avert the need to talk about tax, says IPPR

Responding to today’s spring statement, Harry Quilter-Pinner, executive director at IPPR, said:

“No one would envy the chancellor for the tough decisions she had to make in today's Spring Statement.

“She is right that taxpayers’ money can be spent more efficiently and effectively, but it’s important to avoid cuts that harm long-run growth or hit people in the greatest need.  

“The pressures on the state – both international and domestic - are set to grow in the coming decade. Greater government efficiency can contribute to this – but won’t be enough on its own.

“The government needs to think long-term about who should bear these costs over time – and make different choices to previous governments, not least those made by George Osborne.

“Right now, there are options on the table for raising revenue without breaking the government’s self-imposed tax rules – from closing loopholes in capital gains and inheritance tax to looking again at gambling levies.”