HC Deb 15 April 1969 vol 781 cc960-1
8. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what study he has made of the effects of taxation upon incentives.

Mr. Diamond

I am writing to my hon. Friend about the results of my examination of previous studies of this matter.

Mr. Sheldon

I shall look forward very much to receiving that information. Since nearly £13,000 million is being raised by taxation, my right hon. Friend must agree that it was about time we gave this matter the consideration that I hope he has now given it.

Mr. Diamond

We have been giving it close consideration throughout.

Mr. Doughty

Will the right hon Gentleman tell his right hon. Friend, although it is a bit late in the day to do it, that incentives are very important for the purposes of earnings, and that earnings mean taxation? If by any chance they are here next year, will the right hon. Gentleman impress on his right hon. Friend the importance of remembering this very important but simple fact?

Mr. Diamond

I wish that it were as simple as the hon. and learned Gentleman thinks it is.