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Finance Bill

Like a minority of his colleagues on the Labour Benches, but none the less too many, the hon. Gentleman wants to arrogate sole concern for those with the least in our society to his own side. In the most arrogant and patronising way, he wants to suggest that Opposition Members are not as committed as him to creating a fairer and more decent society, not least for those with least. The difference between the two sides of the House is the methods of carrying out that programme; that is what separates us. The Opposition never arrogate moral superiority over Labour Members. We are more interested in delivering something better for the people of this country that will sustain and grow our wealth, not least for the benefit of those who have least in our society. The flat tax is a way of looking at creating a more effective tax system. The Conservative party is not closed off to ideology and incapable of looking at new ideas. We will consider any ideas that will create a more dynamic economy, so that we can have a prosperous society for the good of all and first-class public services.