The audience at the recent Question Time event in London shared a light moment when a participant humorously questioned the public’s expectations regarding public services without tax increases. The man pointed out a common desire for better services without the necessary financial support, implying an unrealistic scenario. His query, “Are we all bad at maths?” elicited laughter from the audience and sparked a lively discussion among panel members, including Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones, Conservative peer Ken Clarke, and former Tory MP Danny Kruger who now supports Reform.

During the debate, Zarah Sultana, co-founder of Your Party with Jeremy Corbyn, challenged Mr. Kruger’s views by advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy to support the system. Responding to politicians’ comments, the initial questioner suggested alternative tax strategies, mentioning the potential impact of tax cuts to stimulate spending and boost revenues, citing the recent proposal by the Liberal Democrats to reduce VAT in establishments like pubs and restaurants.

Another audience member raised concerns about affluent individuals leaving the UK due to anticipated tax hikes, to which Ms. Sultana countered, dismissing the idea as scaremongering. She emphasized the importance of taxing wealth over work, criticizing the preferential treatment of billionaires and corporations in tax negotiations. In contrast, Mr. Kruger contested the notion, arguing that high taxation does drive away the wealthy and citing data on wealthy individuals leaving the country and young people seeking opportunities elsewhere.

The exchange of views during the debate on BBC One highlighted differing perspectives on taxation and its implications on public services and society.