HC Deb 03 May 1955 vol 540 c106W
45. Mr. Osborne

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the total reduction in direct and indirect taxation, respectively, since October, 1951; and approximately how many people have benefited under each group.

Mr. R. A. Butler

Direct taxation in 1955–56 is estimated at£780 million less than it would have been on the basis of the 1951 tax schedules. The reductions in personal taxation are estimated to have affected about 19 million taxpayers, counting husband and wife as one. Reductions in indirect taxation total about£30 million net. There are no records on which it would be possible to base an estimate of the number of people who have benefited under this head.