Taxes doubled under Labour, says pressure group

Date: 19th September 2008

The government's revenue from tax has doubled since Labour came into power in 1997, an influential pressure group has claimed.

In a report published today (September 19th) by the TaxPayers' Alliance, it is shown that the UK tax burden has risen from £239.8 billion in 1997 to £517.1 billion in 2008.

Officials from the pressure group have also pointed the finger at the prime minister for complicating the tax system, not reforming the public service and driving the government into debt.

Matthew Elliott, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: "Ordinary taxpayers have seen their bills rise and rise but our services have not improved in return.

"With the credit crunch tightening its grip, it's clear that the country is poorly prepared for tough economic conditions, and it is Gordon Brown who is to blame."

Some would argue that the figures show little though, as tax revenue as a proportion of the UK economy has actually risen only slightly from 37.1 per cent in 1996 to 39.1 per cent in 2008.

Taxpayers have until January 31st 2009 to complete their self assessment tax return and send it to HM Revenue and Customs.