§ 18. Mr. Haymanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received from the cinema industry about his refusal to reduce, or abolish this year, Entertainments Duty affecting cinemas outside the large cities.
Mr. AmoryI have received a number of telegrams and letters, most of which, however, refer to cinemas generally.
§ Mr. HaymanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Gem Cinema, in Redruth, is to be closed at the end of this month because of his Budget? Does he not think it unjust and inequitable that a tax and levy amounting to about 20 per cent. of gross receipts should be levied on this industry? Will he look at the matter again?
Mr. AmoryI did not know of the case the hon. Member has raised, but I reduced this tax very substantially in the Budget last year. It may be that this matter will arise in our discussions on the Finance Bill.
Mr. H. WilsonIs the Chancellor aware that it is not only "may be" but that certainly, subject to the discretion of the Chair, we shall seek to move a new Clause to abolish Entertainments Duty on cinemas?