As we pass the 6 months to go point towards the general election, the economy is still one of the biggest challenges facing the government.

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So I took the opportunity this week to raise some issues with Danny Alexander, Chief Secretary to the Treasury. I specifically wanted to know what his assessment was of the effect of tax receipts on the deficit in the last twelve months.

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You can watch my question and his response by clicking here.

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I think the lower tax take reflects the trend that more people are working zero-hour contracts and for low pay which I’m concerned about.

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Labour have been clear on their condemnation of zero-hour contracts, and the recognition that these perpetuate poor working conditions. It’s time this Government recognises the root causes of the deficit rather than relying on quick fix solutions that harm working people.