HC Deb 11 December 1968 vol 775 cc406-7
24. Mr. Blaker

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the percentage import content in the value of the output of the tourist industry; and how this compares with manufacturing industry.

Mr. William Rodgers

In 1963, 18 per cent. of the gross output of manufacturing industry was imported; no corresponding figures are available for those trades which serve tourists, but the weighted average of the proportion imported is likely to be under 10 per cent.

Mr. Blaker

Do not those figures completely destroy one of the Government's main arguments for the imposition of the Selective Employment Tax?

Mr. Rodgers

They certainly do not. The important thing is to acknowledge the great importance of tourism and to welcome the proposals which my right hon. Friend put before the House three weeks ago.

Mr. Higgins

Would the hon. Gentleman not agree that those proposals were made without adequate consultation with the industry? If he really hopes to help the industry, should there not be adequate consultation?

Mr. Rodgers

There was very full consultation, certainly with the B.T.A. Of course, if organisations wish to make further representations, it is open to them to do so before we introduce the legislation.