HC Deb 19 May 1942 vol 380 cc31-2
58. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that many cinemas do not provide 7d. tax free seats for old age pensioners; and whether he will take steps to get 7d. tickets provided for old age pensioners on production of their pension books?

Sir K. Wood

I assume that my hon. Friend refers to seats which cost not more than 7d., including the pre-Budget duty, and which, under the Budget proposals, do not become liable to additional duty. I am aware that at some cinemas the lowest inclusive admission price exceeds 7d., but I could not require the proprietors of such cinemas to provide seats for old age pensioners for 7d.

Mr. Woodburn

Would it not be possible for the Chancellor of the Exchequer to recommend that, in view of the fact that concessions are made in the Budget, all cinemas should take into account the desire of this House that people with lowest incomes, such as old age pensioners, should be admitted to the cinemas for 7d.?

Sir K. Wood

That is the matter which I must leave to the cinema proprietors.

Mr. Leslie

Would it not be better to increase old age pensions?