§ Mr. DewarTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list all indirect taxes and duties which have increased by more than the rate of inflation since 1978–79, giving for each(a) the rate in 1978–79 and 1992–93 and (b) the real increase since 1978–79.
§ Sir John CopeThe information is given in the table. The question is taken to refer to specific excise duties rather than ad valorem taxes and duties. Exceptionally the figures shown for cigarettes comprise both ad valorem and specific duty. Aviation gasoline was not subject to duty in 1978–79.
statistical returns; and in how many cases in the year 1991–92 action was taken on his behalf that could have led to such penalties being incurred.
§ Mr. NelsonThe maximum penalty under section 4 of the Statistics of Trade Act 1947 for failure to make statistical returns is a fine of a £1,000.
The number of cases taken on the Chancellor's behalf in the year 1991–92 that could have led to such penalties being incurred was 884. Of these, 877 responded to this action and only the remaining seven were prosecuted.