§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the amount per week a married couple with two children on average male earnings is estimated to have paid in VAT, at today's prices, in the year 1978–79; and what he estimates a similar family will pay in 1995–96. [8530]
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryA married couple with two children on average earnings paid VAT of £7.36 per week in 1978–79, in 1995–96 prices, and an estimated £21.40 in 1995–96. Since 1978–79, the real take-home pay of such a family has risen by £80 per week.