HC Deb 22 March 1960 vol 620 cc221-2
24. Mr. Swingler

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in view of the latest figures showing the decline in the cinema trade, he will now abolish Entertainments Duty.

Mr. Amory

I cannot anticipate my Budget statement.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Chancellor aware of the sinister rumour in the trade that he might be tempted to raise taxation on television as an excuse for not cutting it on cinemas this year? Does he agree that this would be a most retrograde and regrettable move, since everybody knows that the case for the abolition of what is now the cinema tax is overwhelming?

Mr. Amory

Sinister rumours seldom come to my ears.

28. Mr. Gower

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many representations he has received during the last three months from England and Wales, respectively, for the removal of Entertainments Duty from the cinema industry.

Mr. Amory

Up to the end of last week, 30 and four respectively.

Mr. Gower

While my right hon. Friend cannot anticipate his Budget statement, may I ask him whether he can say something about the past? Does he agree with the view expressed by some people in the cinema industry that previous concessions have been somewhat inadequate and too late?

Mr. Amory

No, but I have taken note of all the representations that have been brought to me.