HC Deb 07 March 1972 vol 832 cc1224-6
16. Mr. Sillars

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to make an official visit to Scotland soon after his Budget Statement.

Mr. Barber

As yet, none, Sir.

Mr. Sillars

The Chancellor of the Exchequer will be aware of the great concern in Scotland about the Budget and its effect on growth rate, and the effect of growth rate on unemployment. Would he confirm or deny that unless the United Kingdom achieves a growth rate of at least 6 per cent. per annum for the next few years there will be no measurable impact on Scottish unemployment?

Mr. Barber

I should be delighted, as the hon. Gentleman so generously suggests, to find a suitable opportunity to visit Scotland, because it would give me a chance to expound the fact that the present Government have taken more action to expand demand and promote employment in all parts of the United Kingdom than have any previous Government.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, as the first Chancellor of the Exchequer since my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary massively to reduce taxation, he will always be welcome in Scotland, and that he will be even more welcome if he can come to Scotland after the Budget as a Chancellor who has reversed the damage done by the massive increases in road taxation imposed by the Labour Party?

Mr. Barber

I am grateful to my hon. Friend.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us what effect his massive measures have had upon unemployment in Scotland?

Mr. Barber

The simple fact is, as the right hon. Gentleman knows, that he and his predecessor, the two Labour Chancellors, year after year after year, deflated the economy, imposed restrictionist measures and increased taxation to an extent which was bound to have its effect on demand and employment. At least the present Government, since coming to office, have consistently taken steps to reverse that policy.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

rose——

Sir G. Nabarro

Sit down!

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member for Worcestershire, South (Sir G. Nabarro) must address the Chair.

Sir G. Nabarro

On a point of order. Did I hear you call me, Mr. Speaker?

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member is not entitled to shout "Sit down".

Sir G. Nabarro

I was being interrupted after you called me, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member is not backward in coming forward in complaining of the conduct of other hon. Members. Question No. 18.

Hon. Members

Apologise!