HC Deb 24 March 1972 vol 833 cc382-3W
Mr. Alan Williams

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total income to the Exchequer in a full year from each category of goods covered by the lowest rates of purchase tax.

Mr. Higgins

The most recent available analysis for a full year of purchase tax receipts by categories is that for 1970–71, which is published in page 101 of the Report of the Commissioners of H.M. Customs and Excise for the year ended 31st March, 1971, Cmnd 4826. This necessarily relates to the rates of 13¾ per cent., 22 per cent., 36⅔ per cent. and 55 per cent. then in force.

Mr. Alan Williams

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the loss of Exchequer revenue from each individual category of goods which has had purchase tax reduced from 45 per cent. to 25 per cent.

Mr. Higgins

The total cost of reducing purchase tax on goods previously liable at 30 per cent. and 45 per cent., is estimated to be £175 million in a full year. Estimates for individual categories have not been made.