Jonathan: What I think about the campaigns so far

Last updated at 14:03 22 April 2005


Jonathan, 29

Read more about me here

What I think about the campaigns

The Conservative manifesto offered me nothing of interest and certainly nothing I would want to vote for. Howard seems to be fighting an election campaign on stirring up xenophobia and making impossible claims about taxation, which frankly I am not convinced he can fulfill. He is rousing fear in voters, but it's clear from the polls that few people are falling for it. Where is Howard's stance on crime, police, helping the elderly and students? I've seen nothing but a one-issue bandwagon and it's a selfish 'look after number one' manifesto.

I thought Labour's manifesto was a lot more encompassing with a wide range of

issues but I feel they've been reactive rather than proactive on immigration, and need to lead the debate not simply answer back to Tory criticism. I'm still a little confused about their taxation policy and not entirely convinced yet. I'd need further reassurance that it was not going to go up.

The only thing I remember from the Lib Dem manifesto launch was Charles Kennedy stumbling over what his taxation plans would be. I think that cast a shadow over a party which hasn't had a very strong voice, and when it gets its moment in the spotlight it messes up! I've seen plenty of billboards for the Lib Dems but they all seem to focus on one issue - cutting council tax in favour of local income tax. But I think people don't want to pay two lots of 'income tax' regardless of whether it is fairer or not than council tax. The Lib Dems need a stronger voice and a more forceful presence.

Issues for me

I feel Labour are most honest about taxation and not shying away from the issue of rises.

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