A motion by Onchan MHK Peter Karra (LibVan) to introduce a form of taxation on wealthier pensioners was defeated in a Tynwald vote on Tuesday night.
Mr Karran’s proposal was to exclude some automatic benefits such as free dental prescriptions and television licences from pensioners with an annual income of £30,000 or more for single people or £40,000 or more for couples.
‘It is ridiculous that under the current economic times some pensioners with an income of over £30,000 should be exempt from these charges when ordinary working people on a fraction of that with a mortgage and children to support are paying,’ he said.
Douglas South MHK Kate Beecroft seconded the motion.
An amendment by Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK instead called on Treasury to consider ‘all eligibility criteria for access to services and benefits’.
Mr Teare however said he sympathised with the sentiments of the original motion.
Mr Teare’s amendment was approved and the amended motion passed by 17 votes to seven in the House of Keys and by seven votes to one in Legislative Council.