The government has announced plans to introduce a tax on walking.
From next April a levy will have to be paid to the government for each step taken. Everyone will be fitted with an internal chip that will act as a step counter.
Government minister Neil Simpledon said,
“It’s true that we want people to drive less and walk more. But not much more, only a little bit, perhaps to end of the street and back twice a day.
We will allow a basic allowance of 500 steps a day. This should cover basic hygiene needs as we don’t want anyone soiling themselves because of this policy. Beyond that we will charge 5p a step to be deducted from benefits or via the PAYE system for those that remain in employment. Not employed or on benefits? Inflation will soon ensure that you are.
Whilst there some set up costs due to the chip implantation programme we expect the tax to breakeven in the first year, After that it will contribute revenue towards the governments key objectives in Ukraine and wherever else we are able to provoke a war.
This is an equitable tax. It’s easy to reduce your liability by ensuring that you don’t move from the couch all day long. You were given the chance to practice during lockdown. And we should remember that walking raises the heart rate which leads to increased oxygen consumption and consequently carbon dioxide emissions. So, the policy supports our net zero objectives.”