Although the election campaign has just begun, the two major parties are announcing policies one after another.
Here’s a summary of what we’ve heard so far…
Conservative Party
National Service – The Conservative government has pledged to restore “modern” national service for 18-year-olds in England, which could include military service and volunteering.
“Triple Lock Plus” – The party has promised to cut pensioners’ taxes by creating a new “age-related” tax-free allowance (called the “triple lock plus”). In simple terms, from next April pensioners’ allowances will increase in line with average earnings, inflation or 2.5% – whichever is higher.
education – The Conservatives have pledged to create a new qualifications framework called “Higher British Standards” for 16 to 18-year-olds. They also proposed making “some form” of maths and English compulsory until the end of school.
environment – Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said the government remains committed to plans to reach net zero by 2050, a target adopted under Prime Minister Theresa May in 2019.
Labor Party
Taxation – Labour has promised not to reverse the two recent cuts to National Insurance contributions and not to increase income tax.
economy – Labour’s two main economic pledges are to abolish the non-resident tax status held by some wealthy foreigners and to introduce VAT on private school tuition fees.
Waiting List – The party says it will “rebuild” the NHS by providing 40,000 extra evening and weekend appointments a week.
environment – A key Labour policy is the creation of a state-owned enterprise, Great British Energy, which the party claims will lower household energy bills and create jobs.
education – Labour’s flagship policy also includes plans to create a “national excellence programme” to recruit around 6,500 new teachers in core subjects and support their professional development.
