§ 12. Mr. Benceasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the amount collected in Stamp Duty from local authorities in Scotland in 1962–63; and if he will abolish these duties.
§ Mr. GreenI regret that the figure is not available. As regards the latter part of the question, the hon. Member will not expect me to deal with such matters at this time of year.
§ Mr. BenceIs the hon. Gentleman aware that I am rather surprised that he cannot give the figure of the amount collected in Scotland? My information is that there has been a terrific expenditure by local authorities there on Stamp Duty. Will he take steps to see that this burden is removed?
§ Mr. GreenI cannot give the figure because the receipts are not generally divided up according to the class of person from whom they are collected. The hon. Gentleman will recollect that, in 1953, we gave a special concession to local authorities by reducing the percentage from 2 to 1. When the general percentage came down that figure was kept at the same level.