§ 28. Mr. Pounderasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for tht abolition of Purchase Tax on soft drinks.
§ The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Niall MacDermot)For the reasons given in the Budget speech, my right hon. Friend was not able this year to propose reductions in indirect taxation.
§ Mr. PounderDoes not the hon. and learned Gentleman recall the observation of his right hon. Friend a year ago, when in opposition, that he would reduce the Purchase Tax on soft drinks? When is this promise to be implemented?
§ Mr. MacDermotI do not recall the remark, and I should like to see the words. No doubt, my right hon. Friend will look sympathetically on this industry when he is able to consider reducing indirect taxation. If hon Members opposite had warned my right hon. Friend a year ago of what the situation was that he would meet when he took office, he would, no doubt, have had some other things to say.