Guernsey protesters rally against goods and services tax plan

Approximately 2,500 people gathered for the protest

A protest has been held in Guernsey against plans to introduce a goods and services tax (GST).

About 2,500 people gathered at North Beach on Sunday afternoon.

It follows a review by Policy and Resources which in November last year recommended the proposals to fund public services.

The review found introducing a broad-based GST at a rate of 5% was the preferred way to raise most of the revenue needed.

The proposals, which include changes to social security and income tax, are due to be debated later in January.

Deputy carl Meerveld said he was "ecstatic" at the turnout.

He said: "I want to draw a line under what size and style of government we've got and we can afford and then cap it at that.

"Most people in Guernsey are quite liberal and quite generous and they understand we need to pay more taxes. I would be willing to pay more taxes, but want to know what I'm paying it for and have it limited in the future."