HC Deb 05 February 1952 vol 495 cc803-4
49. Brigadier R. Medlicott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the rate of 2 per cent. stamp duty on the transfer of property bears heavily on people purchasing houses; and if he will take steps to reduce the duty to the former rate of 1 per cent.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I cannot anticipate my Budget Statement.

Brigadier Medlicott

Is the Chancellor aware that there is a feeling that this increase was imposed because the party opposite has no great affection for property owners, and that that alone provides a good deal of reason why the rate should be brought back to its proper level of 1 per cent. as soon as possible?

Mr. Butler

I am afraid I cannot add to the negative answer which I have already given.

Mr. John Hay

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that on 3rd July, 1950, he and a great many of my hon. Friends now on this side of the House went into the Division Lobby in support of the proposal in my hon. and gallant Friend's Question?

Mr. Butler

I am aware of all the activities of my hon. Friends