THE States should formally adopt a zero-10 corporate tax strategy some time today. A significant number of members seemed certain last night that following a day of debate – though only half the House has spoken – that Deputy Charles Parkinson’s alternative approach would be rejected by a two-to-one majority.

Major speeches at either end of the day from deputies Peter Roffey and Stuart Falla in support of zero-10 were considered to be key in converting any waverers – and a few openly admitted to uncertainties at this late stage.

Treasury and Resources minister Lyndon Trott singled out his ministerial colleagues for praise.

He said that Deputy Roffey’s speech was quite exceptional. ‘It was a very thorough and comprehensive analysis of why the Parkinson amendment shouldn’t be supported.

‘Regrettably, some of the contributions today fell short of what people of this island should expect from their elected representatives in terms of the research that members have done and understanding of the issues clearly laid out in front of them,’ he added.

‘However, what is clearly obvious is that a significant majority of States members have a full and thorough grasp of this most important issue. That should be reflected in the vote on the Parkinson amendment.’

Many members paid tribute to Deputy Roffey’s speech.

He said that while Deputy Parkinson had rightly identified the shortcomings in the Policy Council’s package, his alternative was ‘over-complex, unfair and discriminatory’.

He described the 7.5% payroll tax as a dreadful idea and said it would mean gross protectionism of local companies, leading to an uncompetitive and flabby economy.

Deputy Parkinson had started the day by claiming massive support from the public.

‘The chief minister said that rarely had proposals received such support from business. I say rarely have any proposals been so completely rejected by the people. It is extraordinary how solid public opinion is on this issue.

‘People want nothing to do with the Policy Council proposals.’