HC Deb 31 October 1979 vol 972 cc524-5W
Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the level of tax evasion in the building and construction industry in each of the past four financial years.

Mr. Peter Rees

By the very nature of evasion it is not possible to put a firm figure on the amount of tax which is lost in this way, but the amounts could well be very substantial indeed.

Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total cost to the Inland Revenue of running the tax exemption certificates scheme for the building and construction industry.

Mr. Peter Rees

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the arrangements which came into force in April 1977.

The cost is about £4.7 million.