HC Deb 12 February 1990 vol 167 cc16-7W
Mr. Chris Smith

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many individuals are currently receiving mortgage interest tax relief; what were the comparable figures for 1973–74, 1978–79, 1983–84, 1988–89 and 1989–90; and what is the current cost to the Exchequer.

Mr. Lilley

Estimates of the numbers of tax units receiving mortgage interest relief in the years requested are as follows:

Million
1973–74 4.5
1978–79 5.6
1983–84 7.5
1988–89 9.1
1989–90 9.3

The cost of providing mortgage interest relief in 1989–90 is estimated to be £7 billion.

Mr. Geraint Howells

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received about the levels of mortgage interest tax relief; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received about the ceiling on mortgage tax relief; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lilley

My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has received a number of representations concerning the levels of mortgage interest tax relief.