HC Deb 30 April 1953 vol 514 cc2331-2
20. Mr. K. Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the saving to his Department on police services and the children's branch, respectively, consequent on the reduction in the rates of Purchase Tax proposed in the Budget Statement.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I regret that, without a disproportionate expenditure of time and effort, it would not be possible to make such an estimate.

Mr. Thompson

Would my right hon. and learned Friend be good enough to affirm that he anticipates there will be some saving in these departments as a result of this change?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Certainly. I think that is clear, but the details would take a great deal of investigation to ascertain.

Mr. Hector Hughes

in considering savings in relation to the police, will the Home Secretary bear in mind their necessary and great services and the importance of encouraging police forces at present, and not engage in any unnecessary cheeseparing?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

That is always very much in my mind.

39. Mr. K. Thompson

asked the Minister of Health to estimate the saving to his Department consequent on the reduction in the rates of Purchase Tax proposed in the Budget statement.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Iain Macleod)

It is not possible to make an accurate estimate, but on a rough estimate the saving in a full year is not likely to exceed £500,000.