You are:

Aldridge-Brownhills

View candidate responses for Aldridge-Brownhills to our public service pledges.

Karl MacNaughton (Green)

I agree that public services should be publically owned and delivered by the public sector and oppose any further privatisation of these essential services.

Green Party plans are to maintain funding in real terms for the public sector, except where we've stated specific cuts (ID cards, Trident) or pledged to expansion or simplification (social care for the elderly, introduction of a Citizens' Pension). As this would mean significant changes would occur then it's not possible to guarantee absolutely that specific jobs might be lost but the overall plan would be for a strong and expanding public service. Further details of our specific plans for the public sector are available in the Green Part election manifesto, "Fair is Worth Fighting For".

In addition, our manifesto includes plans to close tax loopholes and increase income from taxation from the current (and very low) level of 36% of GDP and public service expansion would be one of the uses to which this additional money would come and extra staff would be needed for this. Our plans include provision for pay increases in line with inflation, and we support your campaign to protect your pension arrangements. It's also always important to pay due regard to equalities issues.

I hope that provides sufficient information as to my position with regard to your pledges. Many thanks for getting in touch and apologies once more for the late reply.

Karl Macnaughton

Walsall Green Party
Parliamentary Candidate for Aldridge-Brownhills