Agenda Profile: Vadim Belobrovtsev
Interpellation Regarding the Temporary Taxation of Banks' Excess Profits (No. 595)
2024-03-04
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
Strong opposition to the government's tax policy, which includes increases in VAT, income tax, excise duties, and the car tax. It forcefully supports the temporary taxation of banks’ excess profits (windfall profits) as a responsible and popular alternative to unpopular measures. The framing is heavily policy- and results-based, emphasizing the government's irresponsibility amid an economic downturn.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates knowledge of the impacts of tax policy and the economy, citing specific measures such as VAT, income tax, the car tax, and the reduction of family benefits. They support their arguments with unemployment data from Statistics Estonia and mention the scale of banks' excess profits (nearly 1 billion euros).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is critical, argumentative, and sharp, accusing the government of irresponsible policy. The speaker employs logical appeals, contrasting unpopular and unfair taxes (the car tax) with a popular and fair measure (the bank tax). It is repeatedly emphasized that the bank tax would be a popular decision both in the Riigikogu (Parliament) and in the country as a whole.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the government and the prime minister, who are accused of pursuing an irresponsible tax policy that harms ordinary citizens and small and medium-sized enterprises. The criticism is policy-driven, focusing on tax hikes and unpopular legislative proposals, especially the car tax. This stance contrasts the government’s current actions with the responsible imposition of a bank tax.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
They are open to cooperation with the opposition, asserting that the opposition (the Center Faction and the other two factions) would have strongly supported the bank tax bill. This shows a willingness for broad-based backing and swift passage of the law, provided the policy is just and responsible.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national tax policy and its effect on Estonian people, entrepreneurs, and the state treasury. A specific regional or local focus is absent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker/party advocates for progressive taxation, shifting the tax burden onto banks' excess profits (estimated at around 1 billion euros) rather than placing it on individuals and SMEs. Furthermore, they criticize the government's current policies for deepening the economic recession and increasing unemployment, stressing the urgent need for a responsible fiscal policy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is on socio-economic issues, criticizing the decision to cut benefits for large families by 200 euros per month and eliminate tax incentives. Concern was also voiced regarding the difficulties people face in paying their utility bills.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is the implementation of the temporary taxation bill targeting banks' excess profits, effective January 1, 2025. There is strong opposition to the government-initiated car tax bill and other tax hikes that burden ordinary citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed