Tax cuts programme to be maintained

The previous government's programme to reduce the top rate of income tax over a period of three years will be maintained, Finance Minister Edward Scicluna confirmed this morning. The programme was launched in the Budget when the top rate was reduced from 35% to 32% for those earning up to €60,000. Income over and above the €60,000 would continue to be taxed at 35%. Further cuts will be made in the next two Budgets. Opposition leader Lawrence Gonzi was among those who yesterday sought clarification that the programme will be retained. The same question was made on TVAM this morning by the president of the FORUM group of trade unions, Paul Pace, and the minister gave his reply later in the programme, confirming that the programme will be kept. Prof Scicluna also said this morning that he will also be setting up a unit to conduct a spending review for all the ministries.