HC Deb 08 December 1953 vol 521 c1801
51. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many professional football clubs in England and Scotland, respectively, have made representations to him in the past six months about the serious effects of entertainment tax on their finances; and what steps he proposes to take to reduce this tax.

Mr. R. A. Butler

About 10 in each case; in reply to the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him by my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary on 22nd October.

Mr. Hamilton

Is it not a fact that the figures supplied, at any rate, by some of these clubs, show that the entertainment tax paid in the year 1952–53 trebled while their gate receipts fell considerably? Is not the right hon. Gentleman convinced that there is an unanswerable case for a reduction in entertainment tax on football?

Mr. Butler

I cannot accept the latter part of the hon. Member's statement. As regards the former part, I am engaged in a study of the figures.

Mr. Noel-Baker

In his study of the matter, will the Chancellor take into account the many clubs in all the divisions of the Football League, and in Scotland, which suffered severely from the increase in tax which he made last year?

Mr. Butler

It is a question of degree. We are well informed of the extent of the suffering both of individuals and groups, but I am willing to accept any information brought to my attention by any hon. Member.