Wednesday, February 08, 2006

International Development: Netanyahu vows to eradicate poverty within 3 years

Binyamin Netanyahu, has vowed to eradicate poverty in Israel within three years. He made the vow at a press conference where he presented the Likud's economic platform.

He outlined a 10 point plan that includes lowering the maximum income tax from 49% to 40%, and lowering VAT by 2.5% to 14%. He also suggested granting tax benefits to those who employ nannies, and to soldiers and students.

Also suggested was the establishment of free day-care centers for single mothers, and free afternoon programs for their children, until the age of nine. Seniors would also benefit with an increased subsidy and 50% discount on medicines.