Darling 'will not' reverse 10p tax decision

Date: 21st April 2008

The axing of the 10p tax band will not be reversed, as chancellor Alistair Darling dismisses concerns raised by others in parliament.

Although around 70 Labour MPs have suggested that the move could prove damaging to the poorest people in Britain, Mr Darling has said he cannot reverse the decision.

Speaking on the Andrew Marr show, he said: "What I cannot do is to rewind the Budget. The financial year has already begun."

However, he has also emphasised that other steps would be taken to help those who could be financially impaired by the end of the 10p tax bracket.

Other decisions announced in last month's Budget include an increase in tax on cigarettes, but with tax breaks on nicotine replacement products.

Those living in poverty could be helped by the extra £8 billion worth of affordable housing, which has been scheduled over the next three years - reported the Independent.