§ Mr. Edelmanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will assist employment in the motor industry, between now and April, by reducing Purchase Tax.
§ Mr. BarberI have nothing to add to what my right hon. and learned Friend said on this question when, together with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade, he met representatives of the industry on 26th October. On that occasion my right hon. and learned Friend stated in regard to Purchase Tax that it constituted such an important element in the national revenue that any change could only be considered in relation to broad and long term fiscal objectives. Having regard to all the considerations which were in his mind, he did not believe that a change in Purchase Tax should be made.