HC Deb 01 August 1963 vol 682 c629
19. Mr. Hayman

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce legislation to give local authority water undertakings and public water boards the same tax concessions as those enjoyed by private water companies.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

No, Sir. Private water companies do not enjoy special tax concessions.

Mr. Hayman

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman to read the evidence of Mr. S. W. Hill, a well-known financial expert on opposed Private Bills in this House, who, according to page 62 of the Minutes of Evidence of the Joint Committee of both Houses dealing with petitions against the Bolton Water Order, 1962, said last December that they do enjoy such advantages? Since Mr. Hill is an acknowledged expert on water company finance, will the Minister make inquiries of Mr. Hill and reconsider his decision?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

It is not a question of my decision. I was asked by the hon. Gentleman to state the position under the taxation law, and I have stated it. In view of what he said, it appears that even the greatest experts sometimes have their lapses or, perhaps, sometimes are misunderstood.

Mr. Hayman

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I give notice that at the proper time I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.