HC Deb 20 May 1974 vol 874 cc37-8W
Mr. David Stoddart

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give his last estimate of the number of men living with common law wives denied income tax relief for supporting such wives.

Dr. Gilbert

I regret the information on which to base an estimate is not available.

Mr. David Stoddart

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider including in his next Budget a provision that men living with common law wives and fully supporting them

should be treated for tax purposes as being entitled to the same tax allowances as a married man.

Dr. Gilbert

I have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion but I am afraid I see serious difficulties in it.