HC Deb 23 May 1963 vol 678 cc621-2
20. Mr. J. Wells

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will remove the Excise duty on fruit juice where the fruit content is over 40 per cent., and in particular on blackcurrant juice.

Mr. du Cann

I assume my hon. Friend is referring to Purchase Tax. The Answer is "No, Sir".

Mr. Wells

Will my hon. Friend look at this matter again, because the Purchase Tax on all fruit juices is having a very harmful effect on the horticultural industry and serious repercussions in many parts of the country, particularly among smaller members of the farming community?

Mr. du Cann

I recognise the special interest and knowledge of my hon. Friend in this matter. It is good to see that sales are recovering somewhat, but I am afraid I must tell my hon. Friend frankly that this decision must stand.

Mr. Bence

Will the hon. Gentleman take action immediately, because the rapid increase in the price of sugar is making the position of manufacturers of fruit juices and soft drinks almost impossible? It is imperative that the Purchase Tax on these fruit juices should be removed because of the cost of sugar.

Mr. du Cann

I refer the hon. Member to a Written Answer I gave on the subject yesterday.