HC Deb 08 May 1934 vol 289 c910
49. Captain MOSS

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he will make-a statement regarding his recent interview with a deputation from the dyers and cleaners industry on the subject of the petrol tax; and is he aware that this tax is equivalent to 100 per cent. on an important raw material in this industry?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

As has been repeatedly stated, a policy of exemptions from this tax could not be justified. I pointed out to the deputation, and I trust obtained their concurrence, that such distresses as afflicted the industry were largely attributable to causes other than the petrol tax. I am aware that the ad valorem incidence of the tax is approximately as stated in the second part of the question.