Juan Bravo, the deputy secretary of Economy for the Popular Party (PP) and the lead candidate for Sevilla in the upcoming general elections on 29 November, participated in a series of meetings organised by the Chamber of Commerce of Sevilla. The forum brought together key candidates from various political parties to discuss the future of the province.
During his presentation, Bravo detailed his party's programme, which is structured around six major pillars designed to tackle the economic and social challenges facing both Sevilla and the wider country. He emphasised a management approach based on "integrity, public service, and efficiency."
Economic context and public debt
In his address, Bravo examined the current economic landscape, noting that growth is primarily driven by population increases, while public sentiment reflects ongoing difficulties and a decline in purchasing power. He warned of the implications of public spending and debt, highlighting the significant costs associated with interest payments. He advocated for a "healthy growth" strategy that does not compromise debt levels or budgetary balance.
Taxation and expenditure reduction
As a second key area of focus, Bravo stressed the necessity of lowering taxes, particularly advocating for the deflation of personal income tax (IRPF) to ease the burden on workers and families. He also called for the elimination of unnecessary expenditures and a reduction in political structures, promoting meritocracy over appointments lacking management capability.
Housing and infrastructure
Access to housing was identified as a critical challenge, especially for young people, whose average age for first-time home purchases exceeds 40. To address this issue, Bravo proposed a four-year plan to build one million homes, which would include streamlining processes, utilising available land, implementing non-interventionist fiscal measures, and facilitating alternatives such as property segregation, conversion of commercial spaces, and high-rise construction. He noted that current taxes can account for up to 32% of the final price of a home.
Regarding infrastructure, he called for a strong commitment to maintenance, safety, conservation, and energy and water connections, which are vital for Sevilla's development. He cited the need for preventive measures in high-risk areas as an example.
Employment, productivity, and absenteeism
On employment and productivity, Bravo highlighted the paradox of having three million unemployed individuals while one million job vacancies remain unfilled. To resolve this, he advocated for improved wages, enhanced vocational training, particularly in future-oriented sectors such as artificial intelligence and data centres, and reforms to prevent perverse incentives. Additionally, to combat the tripling of costs due to workplace absenteeism, he proposed giving greater responsibility to mutual insurance companies in managing non-priority healthcare to expedite care.
Public management and bureaucracy reduction
Bravo emphasised the importance of administrative simplification as a driver of competitiveness. He proposed extending the use of responsible declarations and removing bureaucratic obstacles that hinder entrepreneurial initiatives to prevent the loss of projects and investments in the province and across the country.
Demographic challenges
In terms of demographic and social issues, Bravo raised concerns about declining birth rates and suggested enhancing support for families, promoting awareness, and expanding the definition of large families.
In conclusion, Bravo called for responsibility and committed to "integrity, work, and public service" to address future challenges through a politics centred on constructive proposals.
