HC Deb 13 May 1985 vol 79 c1150
23. Mr. Craigen

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the shift in the percentage of revenues raised from indirect taxation since 1979.

Mr. Hayhoe

Indirect taxes accounted for about the same proportion of total general Government receipts in 1984–85 as in 1978–79. Within indirect taxes, taxes on expenditure accounted for about 1 per cent. more in 1984–85 than in 1978–79.

Mr. Craigen

Why are the Government so intent on steadily withdrawing rate support grant from the activities of local authorities, thereby increasing indirect taxation even more?

Mr. Hayhoe

We seek a proper balance between the resources provided by central Government and those provided by the local electorate. We seek a local taxation sytem that is more responsive to the local electorate.