§ 22. Mr. O'Malleyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will recommend the establishment of a Royal Commission to examine the present system of taxation, and particularly to inquire into the relationship between tax reform and economic growth.
§ Mr. MaudlingNo, Sir.
§ Mr. O'MalleyWould not the hon. Gentleman agree that an equitable tax system is a prerequisite of any national incomes policy? Would he also agree that if an incomes policy is to work it must be seen by the public to operate effectively and impartially? Is he further aware that there has been great dissatisfaction over the last few years with the way the Tory Government's so-called incomes policy has operated—[HON. MEMBERS: "Reading."] Would he agree that any effective incomes policy must include a proper capital gains tax and a proper assessment of expense account allowances? Will he look at this again? [Interruption.] May I also ask him why my Question has been transferred to him from the Prime Minister? Is the Prime Minister ducking this kind of Question?
§ Mr. MaudlingAs far as I understand them, I am inclined to agree with the first two points but disagree with the last.