Open Vld has no intention of being hasty on the capital gains tax sought by CD&V. All consequences for all citizens must be clear, stressed Thursday Maggie De Block in the Villa Politica programme.
“When presenting a measure that may have implications for all citizens, the measure must be well analysed for a decision to be taken. All possible consequences must be on the table. I don’t think this is yet the case,” she added.
Mrs. De Block considers in particular that the CD&V proposal is not clear regarding the possible consequences of the tax on retirement savings. “We do not know if they would be affected,” stated the Minister.
Also, the Minister is not certain if small investors would truly be protected. “Reading the major points of the text, I see that it would affect not only large fortunes. All citizens of the country who have some savings or stock are concerned.”
Nor is the Minister convinced by the exemption announced for the stock of small companies and start-up companies. “Companies do not remain small. When things are done well, they grow. Start-up companies are no longer start-ups after a few years,” she pondered.
Maggie De Block stated that reaching an agreement from here to Saturday was not absolutely essential. “We must first all sit down at the table, and you know that that isn’t always easy.”
The Minister also stated that the European deadline of October 15th is solely regarding the budget plan.
(Source: Belga)
