Liberal Democrats Launch Alternative Budget

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 7th Mar 2005

At the launch of the Liberal Democrat Alternative Budget, Liberal Democrat Leader, Charles Kennedy MP and Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, Dr Vince Cable MP, emphasised the need for fairer taxation and tough choices in public spending.

Mr Kennedy said:

"When it comes to electoral success economic credibility is crucial. Which is why the Conservatives are still unelectable.

"I am determined that, at the General Election, we will maintain the reputation for economic integrity that we have built up over this Parliament.

"We have a reputation for being straight forward on tax. That will not change. But the difference between the parties on tax take is minimal. The real issue will be one of principle and of priority.

"In principle it is important that the tax burden does not fall disproportionately on the poor and vulnerable. We also believe that the priorities we are setting out for spending taxpayer's money are the priorities of the British people.

"If Labour are true to form, they will duck the issue of taxation. They will spin and obfuscate. They will rule some things out but be coy about what they actually plan to do.

"The Liberal Democrats have been the real opposition to the Government in this Parliament. At this General Election we will be the real alternative to the Government."