§ 32. Mr. Hurdasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the strong feelings expressed by Coronation committees in towns and villages on finding that Purchase Tax at 66⅔ per cent. is chargeable on the souvenir medals mounted on a safety pin or brooch which they intend to give to schoolchildren; and if he will exempt all Coronation medals from tax.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI announced substantial concessions with regard to Purchase Tax on articles to be used in con- 1435 nection with the Coronation on 31st July and on 11th December. My right hon. Friend regrets that he does not feel able to add to them. But my hon. Friend will no doubt be aware that base metal Coronation medals made for free distribution and to the donors' exclusive design are in any event free from tax.
§ Mr. HurdThat does not, as my hon. Friend will be aware, cover the requirements of the great majority of Coronation committees. Does he not think it absurd that Purchase Tax at 66⅔ per cent. should be charged on a souvenir medal simply because it has a fastening which will stop a child from losing it?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIt is a very difficult question, on which opinions can legitimately differ as to where precisely the line should be drawn. We can assume, however, that Coronation committees, in placing their orders, will take into account the question of tax liability or non-liability.