The “we have no plans to raise VAT” formula of words that Tory spokesmen keep spinning is weak and actually suggests the opposite. The LibDems have rightly seized on this to launch their own attack poster – in a style which imitates past Tory posters from the days when they won elections on tax cutting manifestos. Guido won’t believe the Tories don’t expect to raise VAT unless they rule it out in the manifesto on Monday. It isn’t hard is it?  “We will not raise VAT in government”.  They will have no mandate for a VAT hike if they are not honest with voters…