SIR – In early January Robin Walker MP wrote in the Worcester Standard: “The VAT rise is one of those things which is very painful but unfortunately necessary.

Studies have shown this tax to be progressive and I think it will prove that way.”

Professor David Blanchflower contradicts Mr Walker’s claims.

He said: “VAT is a regressive tax. The millionaires in Cabinet will not become homeless or become depressed because of worries about paying the bills.

“The poor, the weak, children, single mothers and the disabled are going to pay a big price for this coalition’s doctrinaire attack on them.

“Rising unemployment and inequality make people unhappy.”

The current Government is fond of repeatedly saying that what it is doing is necessary, but the fact is that they are making choices that do not need to be made – choices that will harm many ordinary people.

Neil Laurenson
Worcester Green Party