The #Labour Manifesto caused a stir even before its official release on Thursday. Many reacted with dismay at the prospect of having the railways renationalised and increasing corporation tax, with many lamenting that an elected Labour government would drag Britain back into the 1970s. Speaking after the official release, Jeremy Corbyn said that this manifesto would give everyone a decent chance and transform lives. But who are we to believe? Let's take a look at the #key points of the #Labour manifesto.
Key Labour policies
Many commentators have considered this #manifesto to be the most leftwing in years, and it does indeed contain many decisively left of centre policies.
For starters, the national railways would revert back into state ownership after the expiry of the franchise, with fares frozen and free Wi-Fi introduced on all lines once back in state ownership. University tuition fees would be abolished and additional support provided for early education.
The NHS would see a £6 billion annual increase in funding, and Labour also promises to scrap the NHS pay cap. Labour also proposes the creation of a national care service which would receive £1 billion in funding during the first year and a total of £8 billion during the life of the next government.
To provide a competitive energy supply, Labour would create local energy provision services, and the management of the national grid would once again be the hands of central government.
On Brexit, Labour has rejected the "no deal" at the end of negotiations options and has instead proposed "transitional arrangements" at the end of article 50 negotiations. The rights of EU citizens living in the UK, as well as UK citizens living in the EU, are to be secured immediately.
Vowing to make "no false promises" on immigration numbers, Labour "believes in fair rules and reasonable management of migration".
An "obligation to survive without recourse to public funds" would replace the family income threshold.
How does Labour propose to pay for its promises?
The Labour party hasn't been coy about how it proposes to pay for the additional investment. Company profits and the earnings of the top 5% would see tax increases, and a Labour government would foot the remaining investment bill through borrowing.
Those earning less than £80'000 need not worry, however, as Labour has vowed to keep income tax rates at the current levels.
Labour manifesto - simply outlandish or giving everyone a fair share?
True to its traditional beliefs, the Labour party has created a #manifesto in which it is proposing to care for the vulnerable members of society while taxing the biggest earners. Though many have been exceedingly critical of the manifesto, one would have to acknowledge that Labour has simply created a plan rooted in its essential beliefs.
It remains to be seen whether Labour can convince a sufficient number of people to supports its effort to give everyone in society a decent chance.
