§ 54. Mr. Collinsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will allow to all persons in receipt of retirement and old age pensions the 2s. 4d. rebate at present enjoyed only by habitual smokers; and whether he will arrange for it to be drawn in cash.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallNo, Sir. I he purpose of this concession is to give old age pensioner smokers some relief from recent increases in the duty on tobacco, and my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer cannot see his way to extend it to non-smokers.
§ Mr. CollinsCannot my right hon. Friend consider extending this concession to old age pensioners who are nonsmokers but who may wish to purchase intoxicants or confectionery? Does he 699 not think that that would not only be equity but would also reduce tobacco consumption?