1. Should GST be temporarily cut during the economic downturn?

Yes: 66%

No: 34%

'Yes, times are hard. Anything that can help to reduce costs is good for the consumer. The Government has so much in the reserves, so there's no need for GST.'

Mr H K Kin, 56, dentist

'GST is excessive. It's okay for rich people who can afford it because it's peanuts to them. But for not so well-to-do people like us, a cut in GST would be greatly appreciated.'

Mr Henry Tay, 32, consultant

'Cutting GST will be worse for the people. The Government will lose one source of revenue and they will have less money to put in place programmes like healthcare subsidies.'

Madam Halimah Khan, 29, librarian

'Cutting or doing away with GST will not help the people affected by the economic downturn most - the lower-income group. Handing out help packages to the needy is more important.'

Madam Chan Lai Yong, 63, nurse

2. If you think there should be a temporary cut in GST, how much to cut?

a) Back to 5%: 38%

b) Back to 3%: 44%

c) No GST until economy improves: 18%

3. Would you spend more if GST is cut during the economic downturn?

Yes: 56%

No: 44%

'A GST cut would definitely be an incentive for me to spend more. It has a positive psychological effect.'

Mrs Nita Siruno, 46, accounts assistant

'No. It's a downturn after all. I'd probably save more instead to build up a nice nest egg to make sure I'm safe if the economy doesn't improve.'

Madam Halimah Khan, 29, librarian

This article was first published in The New Paper on November 26, 2008.