HC Deb 12 July 1955 vol 543 cc1732-3
33. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the estimated loss of revenue, to date, consequent on the removal of entertainment tax from cricket.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I cannot make a close estimate of the total loss, but it is probably about £200,000 over the period since the tax was lifted.

Mr. Hamilton

Since this represents a considerable concession to sportsmen and the sporting public in England, can the Chancellor say what steps he contemplates taking to give a comparable concession to the sporting public in Scotland, where the game of cricket is not widely played?

Mr. Butler

I know the hon. Member's interest in the Raith Rovers Football Club and other manly sports in Scotland. Unfortunately, they are not on the same level as cricket, which we were able to exempt.

Mr. B. Taylor

Should not this be an incentive for Scotland to take up cricket?