§ 27. Mr. Dykesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, within the general context of a programme of reduced taxes on incomes, he will now consider measures to alleviate the tax burden of retired people.
§ Mr. Maurice MacmillanI have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. DykesDoes my hon. Friend agree that in relation to retired people two propositions stand out from the experience of recent years: first, that retired people's living standards have not kept pace with those of the rest of the community and in some cases have fallen; and, secondly, irrespective of other measures to increase pensions, a different rate of taxation on their first or second incomes would be a great boost to retired people?
§ Mr. MacmillanI have taken note of the points made by my hon. Friend, for which I am grateful. But he will appreciate that I cannot discuss possible tax changes at this stage.