§ 37. Mr. John Fraserasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will seek to increase the concessionary allowance for luncheon vouchers, in view of the rise in the cost of meals since the concession was introduced.
§ Mr. DiamondNo, Sir.
§ Mr. FraserIs my right hon. Friend aware that the value of this concession 820 has been progressively reduced by inflation over the past 15 years, placing the recipients of luncheon vouchers at a great disadvantage compared with those who have canteen meals?
§ Mr. DiamondI do not know whether my hon. Friend realises that a daily luncheon voucher of 3s. is equivalent to a tax-free payment of some £35 a year and, in comparison with normal canteen subsidies, 3s. is still on the generous side. It was that comparison which caused the original issue of free luncheon vouchers.