§ Mr. Greville Jannerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what further representations he has received concerning the abolition of zero rating value added tax for children's clothing; and whether he will make a statement;
(2) what reply he has given to the general secretary of the National Union of Tailors and Garment Workers in response to its letter to him expressing its members' worries about the abolition of zero rated value added tax for children's clothing.
§ Mr. Peter ReesMy right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer received a letter on 5 June from the general secretary of the National Union of Tailors and Garment Workers. A reply will be sent shortly. Those views, together with all others which have been received, will be fully taken into account by the Government in their consideration of the Customs and Excise review of this zero-rating relief. I shall, of course, inform the House of our conclusions in due course.
§ Mr. Banksasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many staff are currently employed in the collection of value added tax.
§ Mr. Peter ReesI will let my hon. Friend have a reply as soon as possible.