More than 405,000 people in the South West will benefit from the married couples’ transferable allowance when it comes into effect in 2015, latest figures have revealed.
Michael Tomlinson, Prospective MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, said: “The values of marriage are give and take, support and sacrifice - they are values that we need more of in this country.
“That’s why Conservatives are backing marriage. Our £1,000 marriage tax allowance will help 405,000 hard-pressed couples in the West Country to keep more of their own money.”
The Transferable Tax Allowance for married couples will enable spouses and civil partners to transfer a fixed amount of their personal allowance to their spouse.
The option to transfer will be available to couples where neither partner is a higher rate taxpayer.
For a couple choosing to use the Transferable Tax Allowance, one individual will be able to transfer £1,000 of their personal allowance to their spouse or civil partner.
It will mean that the higher earner will be able to earn £1,000 more before they start paying income tax.
Michael added: “This shows a commitment to marriage and to the family, and I am delighted to support the Transferable Tax Allowance and this step in the right direction.’’