HC Deb 05 December 1946 vol 431 cc506-7
55. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicks

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will now reduce the rate of interest charged upon Estate Duty.

Mr. Dalton

The hon. and gallant Member will not expect me to anticipate my next Budget statement.

Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicks

While appreciating the soundness of the reply, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he will not agree that the rate of interest fixed by the Government in 1943 is hardly applicable at the present time?

Mr. Dalton

That may be so, but I do not think it would follow that in this particular instance there ought to be a change. I will indicate—of course, I must not anticipate any conclusion I may reach— that I will consider the matter, with others.

Mr. Oliver Stanley

Would it require legislation to make this change?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, it would.

Mr. Hector Hughes

In considering his next Budget, will the right hon. Gentleman consider making a distinction in the case of small estates?

Mr. Dalton

If the hon. and learned Gentleman had listened to my last Budget speech he would know that I have swept away Estate Duty on all the small estates.

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