HC Deb 21 February 1980 vol 979 c634
4. Mr. Hicks

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will meet representatives of pensioners' organisations to discuss the taxation position of the retired.

Mr. Peter Rees

We have no immediate plans to do so; but we keep the taxation position of the retired under regular review.

Mr. Hicks

In view of the economic difficulties facing those on fixed and low incomes, many of whom are of retirement age, will my hon. and learned Friend use every influence that he has with the Chancellor to persuade him to abolish the earnings rule in the forthcoming Budget, instead of merely phasing it out over the lifetime of this Parliament?

Mr. Rees

We are conscious of the commitment in our manifesto. My hon. Friend will appreciate that at this stage I can go no further than that.

Mr. Denzil Davies

In view of the difficulties faced by pensioners and others, will Treasury Ministers make it absolutely clear that they have no intention in the Budget of breaking the link between prices and personal tax allowances? Those same right hon. and hon. Gentlemen, when in Opposition, encouraged and assisted in that law being passed.

Mr. Rees

The right hon. Gentleman's contributions to debate on that amendment will be recalled, not least by his hon. Friends. I cannot anticipate my right hon. and learned Friend's Budget.