Protesters gather ahead of Guernsey States' debate on GST

Protesters gather in Guernsey as politicians prepare to debate the GST proposal

Hundreds of anti-GST protesters turned out ahead of a Guernsey States debate on tax.

The main proposal in front of politicians is for increased income tax allowances, new social security contribution reforms and a 5% GST.

Alternatives put forward include spending cuts, new taxes on businesses and exempting food from GST.

The debate has been described by the chief minister as the most important this assembly will face this term.

A GST of 5% has been proposed for Guernsey

Korinne Le Page, from the Guernsey Retail Group, said it was not the right time to introduce a new tax.

"We are already struggling in the retail sector, in the tourism sector, and a lot of the other sectors," she said.

"People won't come to the island."

However, Paul Hodgson, chair of the Guernsey International Business Group, said some people could be better off under the proposals.

He said: "The package is actually something that has a number of advantages."

Deputy Peter Ferbrache, President of the Policy and Resources Committee, had warned of spending cuts within months if the proposals were rejected.

He said the plan was necessary to maintain government services.

The proposals also include changes to social security and income tax

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