Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
First Reading of the Draft Act amending the Value Added Tax Act (87 SE)
2024-01-10
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly focused on supporting a reduction in the standard VAT rate in order to boost residents' purchasing power and improve their overall well-being. This stance is justified by economic performance, stressing that the tax reduction represents "very simple economic truths." During the presentation of the draft bill, the need for order in the chamber was also emphasized.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of tax legislation, citing specific sections (KMS § 15 subsection 1) and VAT rates (22%, 20%, 9%, 5%). They explain the economic implications (growth in purchasing power, improved competitiveness) using simple and accessible terminology. Furthermore, they confirm that the draft bill complies with European Union law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and explanatory, addressing the Deputy Speaker of the Riigikogu and colleagues. The simplicity and clarity of the bill's content are emphasized, noting that it does not contain new or foreign-language terms. Logical arguments are employed, referencing the expected economic impacts, and there is also a brief remark calling for order due to noise in the chamber.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The action pattern indicates the submission of the bill (10.05.2023) and subsequent delayed proceedings, as the draft law only reached the table several months later. The current activity is the bill's first reading, during which the content and impacts of the legislation are presented.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No direct confrontation is expressed, but there is indirect criticism of the slow legislative process, given that the handling of the draft bill has been significantly delayed since it was submitted in May 2023.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, concentrating on the competitiveness of Estonian enterprises, residents' purchasing power, and overall economic growth. Compliance with European Union law is also mentioned, but there are no references to specific regions or local issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It strongly supports tax cuts (specifically, reducing the standard VAT rate) as the primary measure for stimulating economic growth. The objectives are to decrease the prices of goods and services, boost residents' purchasing power, and enhance the competitiveness of Estonian businesses. This strategy is focused on increasing both consumption and income.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the presentation and support of the draft Act amending the Value Added Tax Act (Bill 87 SE). The objective is to lower the standard rate of VAT, without making any changes to the reduced rates. The speaker is both the initiator and the presenter of the bill, and also noted the planned effective date (the beginning of 2024).
2 Speeches Analyzed