Conservative Party Seeks Tax Rebates For U.K. Companies That Will Hire Unemployed Britons

November 11, 2008 6:03 p.m. EST

London, England (AHN) - The Conservative Party proposed Monday that the British government grant tax rebates of up to $3,875 to U.K. firms that hire unemployed worker. Prime Minister Gordon Brown immediately rejected the idea as an unfunded tax cut.

In a press conference, Tory leader David Cameron said the amount could be taken from the national insurance contribution of workers, which is lesser if they remain jobless and collect $12,392 (8,000 pound) unemployment benefits.

Brown, in another media conference held an hour after, dismissed the Tories' proposal. He said instead of hastily-thought proposals like the tax rebate, lawmakers should come up with "serious policies for serious times."

The prime minister pointed out the Conservative Party changes its policies daily. "They have a new issue to get them on the news but it is not serious in measuring up to the problems we face," Brown said.

Brown has previously hinted he will announce tax cuts to help U.K. go through a period of recession.

David insisted the proposal has been used by the U.S. and Canada and has worked successfully.