HC Deb 05 February 1981 vol 998 c204W
Mr. McQuarrie

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received on the raising of the ceiling on tax relief on mortgage interest under the Finance Act 1974; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Rees

I shall let my hon. Friend have a reply as soon as possible.

Sir Brandon Rhys Williams

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if it is his intention to introduce a system for making positive payments to taxpayers in lieu of the reliefs to which they are entitled in respect of mortgage interest.

Mr. Peter Rees

[pursuant to his reply, 2 February 1981, c. 34.]: No. I am aware of my hon. Friend's interest in tax credits, but my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary made it clear that the mortgage interest relief review he announced on 23 January 1981—[Vol. 997, c. 596-97]—would be concerned only with the mechanism for giving tax relief.