HC Deb 25 January 1972 vol 829 cc1185-6
13. Mr. David James

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will take steps to ensure that a forced sale in bankruptcy is not treated as being a disposal for capital gains tax purposes until or unless the creditors have received payment in full.

Mr. Maurice Macmillan

I have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. James

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for noting this point. Does he agree that any supplier takes a risk in extending credit which the Government do not take, and that, therefore, it would be seemly if the Government took last place in the queue instead of jumping ahead of those trade creditors?

Mr. Macmillan

There are considerable complications in the allocation of priorities in bankruptcies. I understand my hon. Friend's feelings. However, I am sure that he appreciates that any change in priorities, where there are competing claims to consider, needs the most careful examination. As I indicated, we have noted the problem.

Mr. Dalyell

What is the difference between having something under examination, noting a suggestion, and having something under constant review?

Mr. Macmillan

Roughly speaking, the proximity of the Budget.