HC Deb 24 January 1985 vol 71 c1125
17. Mr. Canavan

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many representations he has received about possible new taxation proposals for the 1985 Budget.

Mr. Peter Rees

Several.

Mr. Canavan

Is the Minister aware of the widespread opposition to the imposition of VAT on books, which would be a tax on learning, and of the widespread opposition to the taxation of pensions, which would be retrospective if people who had already made contributions found out afterwards that they were to be taxed? If the economy is in such a mess that the Treasury needs more revenue, why should not a wealth tax be introduced, or is this Tory Government afraid to ask their supporters to pay for their discredited policies?

Mr. Rees

As to a wealth tax, I would refer the hon. Member to the report of the Select Committee that was set up under the last Labour Government. As to the hon. Member's other points, I cannot anticipate the Budget of my right hon. Friend, except that I would remind the House of the statement that was made before Christmas by my right hon. Friend about retrospective legislation concerning pensions.

Several Hon. Members

rose—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Before we proceed with Prime Minister's questions today, may I say to the House that I believe that the noise and the interruptions during Prime Minister's questions last Tuesday was worse than I have ever heard it before. It is part of our democratic tradition that we should hear each other with respect. I hope that that will happen today.