Swinney tax rise

John Swinney says he wants “a progressive system of taxation where the amount paid is more closely related to the value of the property and, therefore, to the ability of the individual to pay” (your report, 8 June).

Is that not what is already in existence when “progressive” is described in the Collins Dictionary as “progressing by steps or degrees”?

The current Stamp Duty rates go from 0 per cent for a property value up to £125,000 to the highest rate of 7 per cent for properties over £2 million.

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If, as he suggests, his plans will be “revenue-neutral” then, in effect, he is introducing a “mansion tax” as he will remove those taxpayers at the lower end of property values and replace the lost revenue by charging an even greater tax rate at the higher end of property values.

“Progressive” is already in the system, just be honest that he is changing the tax rates.

Richard Allison

Braehead Loan

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