§ 19. Mr. Hileyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total amount of the surtax assessments (1972–73 of £150 and above) entitled to payment deferment, and not so entitled, respectively ; and how many assessments fall into each category.
§ Mr. NottThe estimated amount of surtax for 1972–73 for which deferment claims may be made is £45 million, and 907 the estimated amount not entitled to deferment claims £385 million. The corresponding number of assessments is about 110,000 and 300,000 respectively.
§ Mr. HileyAm I right in assuming that those who are not entitled to deferment are those who live on investment income whereas those who enjoy the privilege live on earned income? Is this not further discrimination against people whom we should encourage to save?
§ Mr. NottAs my hon. Friend knows, the Government have introduced a level of £2,000 below which income is not treated as so-called unearned income. That has been a major benefit to retired and elderly people.