Dr. ThomasTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received concerning the effects of income tax cuts since 1979 on the regions of the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Norman LamontI am not aware of any recent representations on this point. The income tax cuts we have achieved since 1979 will provide a stimulus to enterprise and initiative in all regions of the country.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what percentage of taxpayers in(a) England, (b) Scotland, and (c) Wales pay income tax in the highest band.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThe latest available information by country is for 1985–86. In that year the following percentages of single people and married couples liable to tax were liable at (i) a higher rate, (ii) the highest rate of income tax: England (i) 5.0 per cent., (ii) 0.6 per cent.; Scotland (i) 4.3 per cent., (ii) 0.3 per cent.; Wales (i) 3.4 per cent., (ii) 0.2 per cent. Members of Her Majesty's forces and the Merchant Navy are excluded.