§ Before I turn to my proposals for changes in taxation, I have one other change of a specific nature to announce.
§ As the House knows, the new official secrets legislation currently passing through Parliament is very much narrower in scope than the present Official Secrets Act. In particular, it does not cover information in the possession of either the Inland Revenue or Customs and Excise concerning the private affairs of specific taxpayers. I am sure that the whole House will agree that it is essential for taxpayer confidentiality to be properly protected.
§ I therefore propose to introduce provisions in this year's Finance Bill to ensure that it will continue to be a criminal offence for officials or former officials of either of the Revenue Departments to reveal information about the private affairs of a specific taxpayer.
§ I would only add that the need for this protection is in no sense a reflection on the probity and integrity of the members of those two Departments.
§ Indeed, after nearly six years as Chancellor and more than eight years as a Treasury Minister, I would like to take this opportuntiy to pay public tribute to the outstanding service I have consistently received from the officials of both Departments.
§ Mr. Eric S. Heffer (Liverpool, Walton)Will the right hon. Gentleman give way?