Tax delay proposals are defeated

A goods and services tax (GST) will be introduced in Jersey next month, the island's top politician has said.

Senator Len Norman's proposal to delay the introduction of the 3% tax until 2009 was defeated in the States.

Mr Norman argued the States was in a healthy financial position and could afford to delay the tax.

But Chief Minister Frank Walker said it would be a grave mistake. The tax, which includes food and clothing, will come into force on 6 May.

GST is being introduced to cover the financial shortfall from a new zero-rate corporation tax.