Michael Gove supports Liz Truss in call for tax cuts
On the first day of the Tory Conference in Manchester, Michael Gove, the Levelling Up Secretary, backed his former political rival Liz Truss in her plea to Chancellor Rishi Sunak to slash taxes ahead of next year's general election. Gove emphasized that the desire to reduce taxes, which are currently at their highest since World War II, is one that unites the Conservative party.
PM refuses to commit to tax cuts
However, just minutes before Gove's statement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson refused to make the same commitment. Instead, he stated to the BBC that the "best tax cut" he can initiate is reducing inflation.
Liz Truss and allies call for tax cuts
Liz Truss and other right-leaning allies within the party will be holding a conference "growth rally" to pressure the Prime Minister to change his course on the economy. Truss, alongside former cabinet secretaries, will advocate for a reduction in corporation tax from 25% to 19%. Additionally, she will argue that the Tories should become the "party of business again" and decrease the size of the state.
Gove emphasizes commitment without signing pledges
In response to the rallying cry, Michael Gove stated that he doesn't need to sign any pledges to demonstrate his commitment to reducing the size of the government. He affirmed that, as a member of the government, he will work with the Chancellor and others to ensure value for money and reduce the cost of government.
Sunak refuses to cut taxes
Chancellor Rishi Sunak dismissed the demands of backbenchers and ministers to cut taxes. Instead, he argued that inflation is a tax that disproportionately affects the poorest people. He emphasized that his plan to combat inflation is the best tax cut he can deliver.
