50. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the Prime Minister whether the statement made by the President of the Board of Trade at the Fur Fashions Ball on 9th September that he was in favour of a flat-rate Purchase Tax on all commodities represents the policy of Her Majesty's Government.
§ The Prime MinisterThe remark to which the right hon. Gentleman has called attention was made in conversation. It was in no sense a statement of Government policy.
51. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the Prime Minister if he will now instruct all Ministers of Cabinet rank not to make pronouncements on prospective tax changes or to express opinions on the same, especially in such fields as Purchase Tax, where such pronouncements can have a disturbing effect on trade and industry.
§ The Prime MinisterNo. Since no such pronouncements have been made, no such instruction is necessary.