§ Mr. Wattasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in order to ease the commercial difficulties now being experienced by craftsmen working in semi-precious stones, he will consider altering VAT regulations in respect of jewellery by either restricting the 25 per cent. rate to precious stones or extending it to cover all jewellery items.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonI have noted the hon. Member's suggestion.
§ Rear-Admiral Morgan-Gilesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he 317W expects to publish his observations in reply to the petition presented on 2nd May by the hon. and gallant Member for Winchester on behalf of the Ship and Boatbuilders National Federation concerning 25 per cent. VAT on boats.
§ Mr. Denzil DaviesI have noted the contents of the petition presented to Parliament on 2nd May. The former Financial Secretary to the Treasury met a deputation from the Ship and Boat Builders National Federation on 30th May to hear their representations about the 25 per cent. rate of VAT. The arguments put forward by the SBBNF have been fully considered and discussed.