Alan Reid, Liberal Democrat MP for Argyll & Bute said of the Budget, “This is a Budget of recycled announcements from a Government skilled in raising people's hopes but incompetent at actually delivering help. The budget fails to sort out Britain's unfair tax system, to put money into people's pockets to help them make it through this recession.

“Britain's taxes fall too heavily on those who can least afford it and are too easy to avoid for those who know how. The 50p rate will further encourage the very wealthy to avoid tax unless we tackle the unfair loopholes they exploit.Alan Reid MP: Argyll & Bute

“The Liberal Democrats would get practical help to people who are struggling and cut the vast majority of people's Income Tax bills by £700, paid for by taking aggressive action to clamp down on all the loopholes and exemptions that benefit the richest people and biggest businesses. Unless loopholes are closed paying the 50% rate will be voluntary.

“We would take big choices about what government should and shouldn't do. With a shocking deficit this year of £175bn we need a national debate about what the state can and cannot afford in the future. That is the responsible way - the honest way - to reduce spending in the years ahead and avoid painful higher taxes.”