HC Deb 19 July 1955 vol 544 c181
3. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is prepared to consider making a tax rebate on petrol used in farming and horticultural machinery.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I will consider this proposal in due course as a Budget matter, along with similar proposals that have been made on behalf of other users of dutiable oils.

Sir I. Fraser

Will my right hon. Friend remember—I am sure he will—that the people who use petrol on farms and in connection with agriculture and horticulture are generally small men—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."]—small men who feel that there is something of a discrimination against them by comparison with the big men, who use diesel fuel?

Mr. Butler

I am not quite sure that I can give an opinion upon the relative stature of the citizens involved, but I know that there is a great deal of feeling in farming circles on this subject. I am afraid, however, that I cannot go further than my answer on this occasion.