HC Deb 08 March 1983 vol 38 c342W
Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce legislation to link the rate of interest payable on late tax payments with commercial interest rate levels.

Mr. Ridley

The rate of interest payable on overdue tax is kept broadly in line with commercial interest rates and is subject to regular review.

Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce legislation to allow interest paid on late tax payments to be allowed as a deduction from income for tax purposes.

Mr. Ridley

Interest payments on personal borrowing are not as a general rule allowable for tax purposes. It would be wrong to make an exception for interest charges incurred as a result of delay in the payment of taxes.