HC Deb 11 February 1954 vol 523 cc1351-2
32. Mr. Mayhew

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will take budgetary steps to lower the cost of living by discouraging excessive expenditure on advertising.

Mr. Maudling

I cannot anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement.

Mr. Mayhew

Does the hon. Gentleman realise how much money is being spent on advertising in this country? Does he realise that this situation will get worse if commercial television comes? Will he tell the House that the Government will start to pay attention to the public interest in these advertising questions?

Mr. Maudling

I am well aware that statements of that kind are made, but I am also aware that no evidence whatever is furnished to support them.

Mr. Vane

Would my hon. Friend suggest to the Chancellor that he follow the example of some foreign countries and arrange that advertising material displayed on hoardings should carry a Revenue stamp?

Mr. Maudling

I am sure my right hon. Friend is always interested in any suggestion for raising revenue.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is the Economic Secretary aware that poster advertising has the most adverse effect both on road safety and on the tourist industry?