Pottery (Purchase Tax)

HC Deb 12 November 1957 vol 577 cc754-5

11. Dr. Stross

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the reduction of Purchase Tax on pottery from 30 to 15 per cent. has had a beneficial effect on home trade sales.

Sir D. Eccles

Home trade sales of domestic pottery were 11 per cent. greater in the six months ended 30th September, 1957, than they were in the corresponding period of 1956. I cannot say to what extent this increase was attributable to the reduction in Purchase Tax.

Dr. Stross

Has not the President observed the view of the industry itself that at least this coincides with the reduction in the Purchase Tax from 30 per cent. to 15 per cent.? In view of this, will he take an early opportunity to discuss the matter with the Chancellor of the Exchequer and urge that the remaining 15 per cent. be now abolished?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes.