§ Mr. Michael Robertsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will seek to extend to the retail trade the benefits of building allowances now enjoyed by industry, in view of the concessions proposed for the hotel industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denzil DaviesNo. The Government accept that in principle capital allowances should be given for all kinds of commercial buildings, though not necessarily at the same rate as for industrial buildings. But the cost, which could be very heavy, rules out the general extension of relief at the present time. Hotels are being given allowances in the current Finance Bill because of the need to encourage tourism, the benefits of which extend to the retail trade.