Coalition MPs, the pasty tax and the "debate"

So what is happening in Westminster with consideration of the pasty tax.

Well, in todays debate on the budget Andrew Miller, the Labour MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, was the first to raise the issue referring to blogs about the “new pasty tax” He added: “the Lib Dems should watch out; that is not the only thing that they are under attack for. They will be the real losers on the issue of regional pay.”

St Ives MP Andrew George responded thus: “On the sublimely fundamental and seriously important issue of pasty taxes in Cornwall, let me reassure the hon. Gentleman that we will be fighting them on the beaches.”

St Austell and Newquay MP Stephen Gilbert requested clarity from Government Ministers present. He stated: “Finally, I turn to an issue that is exercising my countrymen in Cornwall. There is some ambiguity about whether the increase to 20% in VAT on hot food will include pasties that are served from bakeries. The Minister will no doubt be aware that the pasty is not only a staple, hearty meal but, in effect, employs thousands of people and brings millions of pounds into the Cornish economy. Will he give some clarity on whether we can avoid a pasty tax?”

Somewhat predictably his question was not answered.