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Disappointing stuff
It's disappointing to see Joseph Rowntree lending their name to flat taxes - because whilst their intentions are sound the result is that those who promote flat taxes will argue that they support the cause - and it's not clear they do.
They shouldn't.
Whilst they're entirely right - marginal taxes are highest on the poorest 10% in the UK - flat taxes will always benefit the top 10% much more than by any benefit the poor get. I have shown this in my study of lfat taxes for the ACCA.
So, this report ignored one objective necessity. By all means suggest a 37% tax above a high starting threshold if you wish - but then increase the rate even further for the top 10% or so to make sure they do not win hands down, as they would otherwise do. That way the tax system can be sustained and the benefits in which Joseph Rowntree undoubtedly believes can still be afforded.
There is no substitute for progressive taxationnin the cause of social justice.