§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a further statement on the effect of a value-added tax on the price of children's clothes, coal, coke, electricity, gas, and rail and bus fares; what further consideration is being given to this tax in the light of Great Britain's application to join the European Economic Community; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. TavernsThe effect of a value-added tax on the price of the items in question would depend on the rates and coverage of the tax. As to the second 287W part of the Question, my right hon. Friend has nothing to add to the statements he has previously made on this subject.