§ Mr. Merlyn Reesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the adverse effect the 15 per cent. tax on the wholesale value of soft drinks has had on this industry; and if he will obtain evidence concerning the unemployment resulting from the imposition of this tax, with a view to its reduction.
§ Mr. Maurice MacmillanThe soft drinks industry included information about employment in the industry in the representations it has made about the effect of purchase tax on its products. There are other factors affecting the use of labour in this industry, including economies in bottling and distribution arrangements. The hon. Gentleman will not expect me to go further than to62W assure him that all this evidence is being considered with the representations made by the industry.