HC Deb 20 January 1970 vol 794 cc225-6
2. Mr. Blaker

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will now announce the result of the Government's review of the new over-the-counter duty-free export scheme for overseas visitors; and if he will estimate the value of goods sold under the new scheme since its introduction compared with those sold under the alternative scheme.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Dick Taverne)

The review is not yet complete. The value of goods sold under the new scheme from its introduction on 1st July, 1969, until the end of December was over £¾ million, compared with rather less than £2 million under the alternative scheme during the same period.

Mr. Blaker

Do not those figures suggest that the new scheme has not been very popular and do not they confirm some of the many criticisms that were made of the scheme? May we have an assurance that any modified scheme will be brought into effect as a result of the review in time for the forthcoming tourist season?

Mr. Taverne

Many of the criticisms made of the scheme were based on misconceptions; and the evidence is that increasing use is being made of the scheme.