HC Deb 03 February 1955 vol 536 cc1267-8
49. Mr. Grimond

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give assistance, similar in amount to that provided for Northern Ireland, towards reducing the cost of coal in Orkney, Shetland, and other islands.

Mr. H. Brooke

No, Sir. I do not think that this would be appropriate. The Northern Ireland Government, in the exercise of its discretion and within the agreed framework of parity of taxation and services, has thought it proper to give assistance in one particular way. It does not follow that the same pattern should be adopted in the remoter parts of Great Britain.

Mr. Grimond

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this assistance is, in fact, given by the British taxpayer? Would he not agree that what is good for Northern Ireland may very likely also be good for Orkney and Shetland and other islands which need assistance?

Mr. Brooke

I am glad to see the way in which the hon. Member supports the Union, but I think it may well be that financial assistance suitable in one case may not be equally suitable in another, though some other form of assistance may.

Mr. Grimond

What other form of assistance is envisaged by the Financial Secretary?

Mr. Brooke

Some islands receive the benefit of shipping subsidies.

Mr. Hayman

May I ask the Minister to consider making a concession to Cornwall, since the average price of coal there is £2 above the average price for the country as a whole?

Mr. Brooke

I do not think that I can do that. In any case, it is fortunate that Cornwall is not beyond the Irish Sea.