The so-called low tax Tory government is actually levying taxes not seen since the 1970s. And it’s the lowest paid, who have already seen real terms cuts who are bearing the brunt.

Northumbrian workers are set to be hit with a 1.5 percent increase in National Insurance to pay for health and social care. Add to that the impending cut to Universal Credit which just adds insult to injury.

Northumberland Labour leader Scott Dickinson says there is another, better way.

“I really feel for the dedicated workers in all sectors in our county. This government is so out of touch with the people it is supposed to be serving, it’s unreal. And many of these people voted Tory at the last election because they thought things would be better under the Tories. What a slap in the face for them.

“A Labour government would close the loophole which allows private equity fund managers to pay less tax on their bonuses. We all have to pay our tax; why not them?

“The current tax system is inherently unfair. Even if you’re under the income tax threshold you’re still paying 20 per cent VAT on many goods and services.

“No one is arguing about the desperate need to raise money for health and social care. If the pandemic has shown us anything it’s that these services are essential and treasured, but the way of paying for them is falling on those who can least afford it.

“Northumberland Labour will be playing its part to make sure a future Labour government makes the taxes fairer and making sure the present government is held to account.”