HC Deb 24 March 1955 vol 538 cc196-7W
Sir A. Bossom

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how far Purchase Tax is charged on dispensed veterinary medicines and drugs as it is on proprietary brands; and ifhe will make a statement.

Mr. H. Brooke

Medicines and drugs which are of established therapeutic value can be obtained for veterinary dispensing free of tax.

Sir A. Bossom

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in his forthcoming Budget, he will consider removing the Purchase Tax from veterinary medicines in order to permit farmers to take full advantage of measures for the prevention of disease and to cure illness in their stock.

Mr. H. Brooke

I cannot anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement. At present animal medicines are dealt with broadly on the same lines as human medicines, with the result that a large number are exempt.