Budget deficit: cut spending or raise taxes?
The state budget is in deficit. What should come first?
- Cut public spending
- A mix of savings and new revenue
- Tax high earners and large companies more
What's at stake: Everyone wants to reduce the deficit; they differ on who makes the effort: public spending and its beneficiaries, or the wealthiest taxpayers.
The left's argument
Spending cuts hit the most vulnerable first. The better-off must contribute more.
The centre's argument
Neither austerity alone nor taxes alone: a mix of savings and some new revenue.
The right's argument
The state spends too much and taxes are already high: cut the waste before anything.
And you, where do you stand?
Answer 30 situations like this one and find out where you stand, topic by topic.