§ 28. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what studies he has made with a view to bringing the direct and indirect levels of taxation in the United Kingdom into line with those of other industrial countries.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsAlthough there are variations in the levels of individual taxes, the general levels of direct and indirect taxation in the United Kingdom are not out of line with those of other industrial countries.
§ Mr. RidsdaleHow are we to get the level of investment and savings that we need unless we reduce direct taxation and stop attacking capital? Is this not the example of other countries?
§ Mr. JenkinsNo, I do not think it necessarily is. It is important to achieve the objectives that the hon. Gentleman has in mind, but it by no means follows that the methods he advocates are the correct ones. The overall burden of taxation is higher in France and in Germany than in this country. The proportion of direct taxes appears to be somewhat higher in the United States and Japan.
§ Mr. OgdenAs my right hon. Friend is always being accused of attacking capital, would he at some time list in the OFFICIAL REPORT the amounts of subsidy, in one form or another, that this Government have given to private enterprise over the last four years?
§ Mr. JenkinsThe sums are very substantial. If my hon. Friend cares to put down a Question I will be glad to answer it.