LETTER : Parties rescued a VAT absurdity

David Cromwell
Friday 14 March 1997 00:02 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Sir: Your leading article was a welcome challenge to the mainstream grey parties to address the real problems afflicting us today. But what a pity that you continue to propagate the myth that the Green Party is a "single issue" party.

The Greens recognise that a healthy environment, economic and social justice, and a true democracy are interconnected. That is why we advocate a phased restructuring of the taxation system to shift the burden from labour to pollution and resource use; a basic income scheme for all, demolishing the poverty trap; and a strengthening of democracy and personal freedom through such measures as proportional representation, a Freedom of Information Act and a Bill of Rights. Hardly single issue!

I suggest that it is the grey parties who are "single issue". Their damaging reliance on "economic growth" as a solution to all ills will inevitably perpetuate a widening gap between rich and poor, greater environmental destruction and ultimately a lower quality of life.

DAVID CROMWELL

Southampton Green Party

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in