§ 56. Mr. Nabarroasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, since 18th November last, he has given further consideration to the question of abolishing the 60 per cent. rate of Purchase Tax; and what representations have been made to him since that date by the motor, radio, gramophone and cosmetic industries which are now the only industries affected by that high rate.
§ Mr. ErrollMy right hon. Friend is considering representations made by these industries, but I cannot anticipate his Budget decisions.
§ 57. Mr. Nabarroasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consult with the Minister of Power with a view to requesting the Clean Air Council and the Advisory Committee on Smoke Abatement to consider what assistance could be given to the advancement of effective smoke abatement and cleaner air in Great Britain by the abolition of Purchase Tax on all domestic gas and electrical heating equipment; and whether he will require that a report be made available to the Government before the Easter Recess.
§ Mr. ErrollNo. Any assessment of the effects on smoke abatement of removal of this tax would involve so many assumptions that my right hon. Friend does not think it worth while to make such an inquiry.