While several majority parties welcomed an agreement on Monday regarding the future taxation of financial capital gains, MR President Georges-Louis Bouchez was keen to set the record straight.
For the MR, this is neither a political victory nor a cause for satisfaction. This tax has never been a liberal demand, still less a solution to our country's economic challenges. The President pointed out that Belgium already holds the sorry record of most taxed country in the world. In this context, it is incomprehensible to celebrate the creation of an additional tax.
“It is astonishing to see politicians rejoicing over a new tax in the most taxed country in the world.” The MR nonetheless takes its share of responsibility within the coalition agreement: this measure was the price to pay in order to carry out major reforms in other essential areas, such as employment, energy or justice. David Clarinval, the liberal Minister for Employment, played a central role in defending the safeguards set by the MR throughout the negotiations.
But the MR President is clear: “The agreement will only be real once the legislative text is on the table and strictly respects what has been agreed.”
For the MR, there is no question of going further. This capital gains tax remains an exception. No new tax will be accepted. Priority must be given to reducing the tax burden, purchasing power and economic recovery.
The MR remains true to its principles: fewer taxes, more freedom, more work.