It is virtually impossible for salaried individuals to withhold taxes. I think this is much more a reflection of the weak economy and optimistic growth forecasts from treasury. It becomes a bit of a death spiral, less taxes = less spending from government = lower economic growth. The increased need for government to borrow amplifies the situation further as increased interest payments reduces government's spending ability. This is classic pre-IMF bailout stuff. That there is even a debate about "free" education, let alone nuclear energy, given the context is ridiculous.