HC Deb 25 July 1977 vol 936 cc27-8
52. Mr. Canavan

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will list his official engagements for 25th July.

Mr. Lever

Apart from my duties in this House, I have meetings today with ministerial colleagues and with officials.

Mr. Canavan

Will my right hon. Friend make a statement about his attitude towards the TUC-Labour Party working group proposals for a wealth tax? As my right hon. Friend appears to be the Government's tax consultant, will he advise the Treasury to implement this proposal, which would bring in about £550 million from very rich people such as Sir Hugh Fraser, the Shadow Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection—the hon. Lady the Member for Gloucester (Mrs. Oppenheim)—and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster?

Mr. Lever

I have not had the advantage that my hon. Friend has obviously had of being privy to these secret and valuable discussions. I assure him that I shall react to them on their merits. I shall give them such support as they deserve.