SPENDING on public services could be set to increase to more than £1 billion next year.
Islanders will also pay more for fuel and alcohol, but could benefit from increased income tax thresholds, if the Government Plan is approved.
The plan – released today – sets out the government’s proposed expenditure and income over the next four years. It is set to be debated by States Members in December.
Under the proposals, overall spending on delivering public services is set to rise to over £1.1 billion next year – an increase from the £985 million approved for 2023. This is only slightly lower than the £1.2bn in general revenue income for the same year.
The document cites ‘inflationary pressures’ as one of the main reasons for the increase.
Fuel duty would be increased by 7p per litre, and alcohol duty would go up too – with a pint of beer predicted to cost Islanders 4p more if the plans are approved.
Tobacco duty would also rise, adding £1.38 to the price of a standard packet of 20 cigarettes.
The cost of the Island’s biggest capital project – to develop new healthcare facilities – continues to rise, with £52m allocated in 2024 ahead of a States Assembly debate about building an acute facility at Overdale. This could, however, rise to £70m after the debate.
