HC Deb 25 October 1966 vol 734 cc811-2
21. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what consideration is being given to the negotiation of a new double taxation agreement with India, in view of the hardship caused to the British business community in India by the devaluation of the Indian rupee.

Mr. Diamond

There have been discussions with India on a number of occasions about a double taxation agreement, but so far it has not been possible to make one.

Mr. Goodhart

The British commercial community in India faces almost total destruction by reason of the devaluation of the Indian rupee. Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that important sections of that community believe that their position could be made tolerable if a new double taxation agreement were negotiated?

Mr. Diamond

I recognise the importance of what the hon. Gentleman says, but there is no point in signing an agreement which does not contain terms which are satisfactory to both sides.

Dr. Gray

Will my right hon. Friend see whether he can do anything to help the few members of the old I.C.S. who remained in Indian Government service and whose financial conditions of service are now affected by rupee devaluation?

Mr. Diamond

That is a very different question.