§ Mr. Horobinasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement about the future of the Purchase Tax coupon scheme.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThe working of the Purchase Tax Coupon Scheme has now been carefully reviewed. The Government are satisfied that the imperfections inherent in this experimental scheme now outweigh the benefits derived from it, and that, on balance of advantage, it should be discontinued.
It has not been possible to devise any alternative arrangement which would be free from the defects of the present scheme and would also incorporate adequate safeguards against abuse and loss of revenue. But, although the Purchase Tax Coupon Scheme will, therefore, be terminated at the end of this year, the Personal Export Scheme will, of course, continue to provide its valuable facilities for tourists.