Flat Taxes and the Treasury.

How lucky we are to have a government that believes in the truth, the even handed enquiry into what would be the best way of ordering our world. Recently the Treasury compiled a report on the virtues and problems with a system of flat taxes, paying especial attention to the proposals of the Adam Smith Institute (for whom I occasionally write at their blog).

When, under the Freedom of Information Act, some asked to see the report, guess what happened?

The system is being backed by free market reformers worldwide but a Treasury paper released under the Freedom of Information Act last month had key sections detailing the advantages blacked out.

Specifically:

The uncensored paper seen by The Daily Telegraph presents a more balanced picture, acknowledging that a flat tax could increase economic activity and tax revenue, making Britain more attractive to foreign investors. It could create a "mini-economic boom" and would "eliminate distortions", the paper says.

Part of a two-page section that was removed says: "The reduction in rates and thus the tax burden faced by individuals should, in theory, stimulate further economic growth" and would establish "a one-off virtuous circle from tax cuts to economic growth to tax revenue".

Oh happy isles, that we should be ruled by those so conscientious and concerned for our welfare! That a simpler taxation system might be a good idea will only cause confusion so we must be protected from the information that might cause such consternation! Welcome to out brave new world where information, compiled at the taxpayers expense, about how those taxpayers should be fleeced, is not trusted to those dear little baa lambs, the taxpayers, because, well, why?