HC Deb 31 March 1960 vol 620 cc1499-500
35. Mr. K. Lewis

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider granting tax relief to clergy for reasonable expenditure on theological books.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Sir Edward Boyle)

I have noted the hon. Member's suggestion, but he will not expect me to anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement.

Mr. Lewis

Will my right hon. Friend ask his right hon. Friend to bear in mind that if this is not put right there will be some injustice, because already some professions are given a tax allowance on books which concern their business or profession, and this does not apply to clergymen?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not think I can add anything to my earlier Answer, although, of course, my hon. Friend is at liberty to write to me on this subject at any time.