§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what relative priority the Government accord to(a) further reductions in income tax and (b) an increase in means-tested social security benefits as a means of reducing dependency.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThe sound economic policies pursued by this Government have allowed both reductions in the rate of income tax and increases in spending in priority areas. We intend to continue in this way.
§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to review the present tax paid on petrol and motor oils.
§ Mr. Peter Lilley[holding answer 29 November 1988]: Decisions on excise duty rates are a matter for my right hon. Friend's Budget.