Preference Shares

[#1]

I'm thinking of allocating a portion of my portfolio to preference shares - I was looking at Inestec PLC Pref (INP) in particular. DY 22.45%. Sentiment for 2009 looks rather bleak and I know Investec doesn't expect to attain any earnigs growth for at least 2009. Despite this, this share still seems attractive - any comments? Also, I recall reading something on the new taxation on dividends - do we know pay tax on dividend income - if so what are the rates?