HC Deb 11 March 1982 vol 19 cc960-1
9. Mr. Richard Wainwright

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make it his practice to present a provisional Budget Statement in December with a series of fiscal options for Parliament to consider.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

As the hon. Member knows, Budget procedures are being studied by the Treasury and Civil Service Select Committee. I await the report of the Committee with interest.

Mr. Wainwright

Does the Chancellor of the Exchequer agree, especially in the light of his recent experience with table 9 of the Budget press realease, that considerations of tax, social security and energy are now so complex and closely interrelated that even he needs a wider dialogue before reaching firm conclusions to put to the House?

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I suspect that if some people have found it difficult to follow the tables describing one option, it might compound confusion even more if we were to offer more than one option at the same time. The present method has commended itself to the House over a number of years. It enables the House to concentrate on the plans that are laid before it by the Government. I look forward with interest to see whether the Select Committee will suggest an alternative approach.

Mr. Dykes

In view of our tradition of the once-a-year principal Budget, will my right hon. and learned Friend say what has been the main modification in monetary policy in Tuesday's announcement?

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I have already answered that question in the reply that I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Enfield, North (Mr. Eggar).