(Tuesday 21 April 2009)
SCOTTISH UNISON secretary Matt Smith told delegates on Monday that the economic crisis must be paid for by fairer taxation and more investment in public services.
In a hard-hitting speech, Mr Smith pointed out that the crisis has been caused by relying on a get-rich-quick philosophy and that the proponents of that philosophy are still arguing for the failed policies of deregulation and attacks on the public sector.
"The richest 1 per cent in our society have doubled their share of total income since the 1980s," he said.
"Today, they pocket more money than the entire workforces of the NHS, state education and local government put together. And they pay back nothing like their fair share of tax.
"Almost £20 billion is lost from the money to pay for our services every year because of the use and abuse of tax havens."
Mr Smith added: "There is no more efficient way to promote a better society than by directing funds to meet unmet needs and to employ those who are cast aside by the actions of others.
"Government must listen when working people call for a just society that rejects free-market economics."
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