§ 27. Mr. Chichester-Clarkasked the Minister of Public Building and Works how much he anticipates that the construction industry will have to pay in selective employment tax during the financial year 1970–71, on the basis of the present rates of the tax.
§ Mr. John SilkinOn the basis of the previous financial year's rates I would estimate that there will be no change.
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkAs this industry is already paying a quarter of the total yield from the tax, or £150 million, in view of the number of unemployed in the industry and in view of the collapse of the Government's housing policy, may we have an assurance that on this day of all days there will be no increase, at least in this tax?
§ Mr. SilkinI have a feeling that the hon. Gentleman is trying to draw me on a matter that is not strictly within my province.