§ 54. Mr. Bruce-Gardyneasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what study he has given to the report of the Economic Development Council for the Distributive Trades on the impact of the Selective Employment Tax; and if he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's policy in the matter.
§ Mr. MacDermotIt has been helpful to have this detailed study. The hon. Member will understand that I am not able to say more at this time.
§ Mr. Hordernasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of 229W the cost to the Exchequer of exempting retirement pensioners and part-time workers, respectively, from Selective Employment Tax.
§ Mr. DiamondThe cost of relieving employers in the service sector of the tax in respect of retirement pensioners, while at the same time continuing to pay premiums in the manufacturing sector, would be of the order of £10 million in a full year. The cost in respect of part-time workers depends on how part-time employment is defined.
§ Mr. Hordernasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the estimated cost of the rebate given to agriculture in respect of the Selective Employment Tax.
§ Mr. DiamondRefunds to agriculture, horticulture and forestry are estimated at about £25 million in a full year.