by David Benton
djlong wrote:I wasn't ignoring or highlighting "union featherbedding" because my point was to show what it costs, per mile, in a European country that's known for having VERY strong unions - far stronger than the ones we have here."Low tax" political parties have never really gained traction in Europe and Australasia( currently struggling for survival in NZ with just 1 % of the vote). I think you are correct to surmise that Europeans will generally support using tax money for HSR, and other public transport. Same with "gas" tax , people may moan , but I don't think they would vote against it . Even the Yellow jacket movement had very mixed up emotions on it.
Now, the political aspect? That's a different story. From speaking to people when I've been in France, the opinion on taxation is "we want our money's worth" versus "we should pay as little as possible". Mind you those are just MY observations - purely anecdotal.
Moderator worldwide railfan , Rail travel & trip reports
The only train trips I regret are the ones I didn't take.
The only train trips I regret are the ones I didn't take.