§ Mr. Eric Illsley (Barnsley, Central)I have the honour to present a petition from residents of Barnsley who protest against the Government's decision to impose value added tax on domestic fuel and power.
The petition of the residents of Barnsley, some 2,000, in total,Sheweth that the recent disgraceful announcement of VAT increases on gas and electricity bills has filled the people of Barnsley with deep concern because of the consequential hardship these increases will have on old age pensioners, one parent families and, in general, poorer members of society. They believe these increases to be to the long-term detriment of those least well off in Barnsley and throughout the nation. Hundreds of people of Barnsley have expressed their concern by signing this petitiin because they feel they are neither economically or socially justified.The petitioners end their petition by saying:Wherefore your petitioners pray that your honourable House will take measures to see that these increases will not proceed because of the social and economic hardship for pensioners, one parent families and communities.And your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray.
§ To lie upon the Table.