§ 17 and 27. Dr. Strossasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) the amount of revenue that has accrued from the imposition of the 30 per cent. Purchase Tax since it was imposed on domestic earthenware and china, giving the figures separately, as well as the total amount, to the nearest available date;
(2) the amount by which the revenue has benefited from the imposition of the 30 per cent. Purchase Tax on pottery for domestic use in Britain, up to the latest date.
§ The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. J. Enoch Powell)Receipts of tax to date, which reflect the eleven months trading from 27th October, 1955, to 30th September, 1956, are estimated to amount to £4¾ million for all pottery. Of this sum about £3¾ million relates to earthenware, about £¾ million to china, and about £¼ million to other kinds of pottery.
§ Dr. StrossIs the Minister aware that it was hoped originally when this tax was imposed that £7 million a year would be gained from it, and apparently that has not been achieved? is the hon. Gentleman further aware that during this period, and as a result of this tax, the workers have left the industry to the extent of some 12 per cent., and that there is unemployment and a great deal of short-time working? Does the hon. Gentleman think it has been worth while?
§ Mr. PowellI am aware of the difficulties of the industry, and an indication has been given that those difficulties are being considered.