BCNDP is upfront on the HST, Mungall wants the same from BC Liberals

Nelson- Since learning of the BC Liberals’ betrayal on the Harmonized Sales Tax, the BCNDP has been clear the HST is the wrong tax at the wrong time. With an upfront and honest approach to the HST, the BCNDP has stood with families and small businesses to stop this tax shift. Despite calls on the BC Liberals to do the same, Christy Clark and her MLAs have done the opposite.

“The BC Liberals have chosen to say whatever is convenient to push through the HST rather than be upfront,” says Mungall. “This week, not only has the Minister of Finance failed to come clean on retaining previous PST exemptions once the HST is voted down, but now he is claiming that the BC Liberals are neutral in the referendum campaign. Their dishonesty when it comes to the HST never seems to end.”

Recently, the BC Liberal government started a $7million HST advertising campaign. Under the guise of explaining the tax, they are persuading people’s votes with their own tax dollars and false information. This $7million is outside the already determined funding for both sides of the referendum.

“This is just shameful. $7 million for HST ads after they misled the public, $6 million for convicted BC Liberal insiders on BC Rail, and $1.3 billion more out of BC families’ pocket books. This clearly shows the BC Liberals’ priorities.” Mungall adds, “It’s time for a real change.”

British Columbian families and small businesses can trust that the BCNDP will retain all exemptions that existed under the previous PST system once the HST is voted down.

“You will no longer see the HST’s 7% increase on haircuts, vitamins, bicycles, energy-saving appliances, and the long list of other items and services that are now more expensive,” states Mungall. “The BCNDP will ensure fair taxation that recognizes families’ realities today.”

Adrian Dix and the BCNDP continue to stand with British Columbian’s to stop the HST, and are committed to making life better and more affordable for families by investing in health care, education, and other vital services.