Mr. Vaneasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the present rate of stamp duty chargeable on farm tenancy agreements and particularly those of small annual value discourages some people from entering into written agreements which are in the interest of good husbandry and estate management; and whether he will consider an amendment in the scale of such duties.
§ Mr. H. BrookeThe rate of stamp duty on tenancy agreements for farms of small 131W annual value is itself quite low, and I have no evidence that it has been a serious factor in discouraging farmers from entering into written agreements. In reply to the second part of the Question, my hon. Friend will not expect me to anticipate the Budget.