HC Deb 25 February 1963 vol 672 c123W
Mr. Clive Bossom

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will reconsider the 15 per cent. duty on blackcurrant juice, in view of the beneficial effect this product has on young children and the extra financial burden the duty places on the horticultural industry; and what were the reasons for imposing this duty.

Mr. du Cann

The reasons why a wide range of soft drinks and fruit juice drinks—including those made from blackcurrant juice—were brought within the scope of the Purchase Tax in the last Budget were explained by my right hon. Friend's predecessor at the time.

I have taken note of my hon. Friend's points, but he will not expect me to anticipate Budget decisions.