Raising the rate of IVA by anywhere between 3 and 17 points is not an austerity measure but a quick way of earning a bit of extra revenue. But what a way to try and stimulate consumer spending and tourism in a stagnant economy: hammer the consumer at every turn with higher IVA, clobber the tourist with increased airport taxes (up to 50% at some airports) AND the results of higher IVA rates.
Think of the countless billions (not to mention lives) that could have been saved just by not intervening in the internal affairs of foreign states and maintaining a subsequent military presence in such states (Iraq, Afghanistan) or providing a state-of-the art Air Force for third parties (Libya).