23. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what assessment he has made of the effect of a 263W transfer in the incidence of taxation from direct to indirect on development of the regions, particularly on those parts of the country where wages are relatively low and prices are relatively high.
§ Mr. ShoreA purely theoretical assessment on the lines proposed has not been done. If, however, the hon. Member has the effects on prices of joining the Community in mind, the Prime Minister made clear that it will be the aim of the Government to shield those on the lowest incomes from any short-term adverse effects of increases of food prices.