HC Deb 04 July 1967 vol 749 cc1557-8
31. Mr. Ridley

asked the Minister of Power what extra revenue is expected to be raised by the increase in electricity tariffs of 10 per cent. on average.

Mr. Freeson

About £110 million in a full year.

Mr. Ridley

Now that the Socialist Government have control of the com- manding heights of the economy are they proud of imposing £110 million of extra taxation, a lot of it falling on the poorest members of the community, after a year of great difficulty?

Mr. Freeson

I start by saying that I am not particularly impressed by the hon. Gentleman's new-found concern for the poorest members of the community. [Interruption.] On the question at issue, there have been previous statements by my right hon. Friend as to the reasons for the tariff increases being announced. We must await to see their detailed application by the various boards.

Sir G. Nabarro

Is it not the fact that 97 per cent. of the population are now required to pay this onerous additional tax of £110 million, including all those on National Assistance and all those at subsistence level? Why, therefore, does he deride my hon. Friend the Member for Cirencester and Tewkesbury (Mr. Ridley) for his very accurate question?

Mr. Freeson

I am always interested to hear and enjoy listening—

Sir G. Nabarro

The Minister should enjoy answering.

Mr. Freeson

—to the hon. Gentleman. It will be interesting to hear from him how he maintains—

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Speaker

Order.

Mr. Freeson

—how he maintains his case that there should not be increased borrowing for the industry while, at the same time arguing in the fashion he does about tariff increases.