§ 1. Mr. Jesselasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what action he proposes to take to ensure that charities which paid stamp duty between 26th March and 31st July 1974 are in no worse position than those which are liable to stamp duty thereafter.
§ The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Dr. John Gilbert)To amend the rate of duty retrospectively for this period would create administrative difficulties which I do not think could be justified.
§ Mr. JesselWill the Government take another look at this matter, despite the administrative difficulties, because it is an inequitable situation? Is he aware that bodies which have to pay stamp duty for May, June or July of this year have to pay twice as much as anyone before or since? Is he further aware that there is a charity in my constituency which has to pay an extra £450 because of this? Is not this contrary to the will of the House? It seems to be very wrong.
§ Dr. GilbertI understand the hon. Gentleman's point and I recognise his long and sincere interest in this subject. I think he is pitching it a little high, if he says that it is contrary to the will of the House, because the Government accepted the sense of the Committee amendment in this matter and the date which is now effective was accepted by the House on Report.