HC Deb 09 February 1984 vol 53 cc739-40W
Mr. Hordern

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will show the proportion of earnings taken by income tax and national insurance contributions, shown separately, for a married man on average earnings with two children aged under 11 years, at the latest convenient date and at 1 January 1980, 1 January 1970 and 1 January 1960, respectively.

Mr. Hayhoe

My right hon. Friend has received representations about the effect of duty changes on spirits and other alcoholic drinks from the Scotch Whisky Association, the Brewers' Society, the Wine and Spirit Association, the Gin Rectifiers and Distillers Association, the Vodka Trade Association, the National Association of Cider Makers, the Association of Licensed House Managers, individual companies and members of the public. All the representations will be carefully considered.

Mr. Parry

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list in the Official Report the current price of spirits and liquors in the European Economic Community and the level of duty imposed from information available to him; and how these figures compare with the United Kingdom.

Mr. Hayhoe

Information on the price of spirits and liquors in most countries in the European Community is not readily available and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. The rates of duty imposed on spirits, wine and cider, according to the latest available information and converted to sterling at the rate applicable on 2 February 1984, are set out below:

Mr. Moore

I shall let my hon. Friend have a reply as soon as possible.