IN every General Election I can remember, it’s the party that best convinces voters it can be trusted with the economy – and, hence, you and your family’s finances – that’s in the strongest position come polling day. That’s particularly the case when the country is going through tough economic times. So, I wasn’t exactly surprised that the main parties all kicked off their campaigns hammering home their economic growth credentials.
I was, however, quite encouraged by the extent to which they were so robustly and explicitly pro-growth, acknowledging that without a functioning, growing economy, they can’t implement any of their policies. Colin Borland: Scotland's 'latte levy' must be designed for the real world And as the campaign has progressed, the rhetoric has been backed by some real policies from the main parties vying to form the next UK Government. Even before their official manifesto launch, for example, Labour had announced a small business plan including steps to improve access to banking services, stamp out late payment, and give small firms a fairer crack of the whip when it comes to bidding for public contracts.
The manifesto itself commits to implement this plan, should they form the next government. The Conservatives are promising to scrap national insurance contributions for the self-employed and freeze capital gains tax. They’ve also pledged to protect business asset disposal relief, a boost for small business owners who regard sale of their b.
