HC Deb 31 July 1997 vol 299 cc449-50W
Ms Lawrence

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made on the tax law rewrite project. [12273]

Dawn Primarolo

I am delighted to report that the tax law rewrite project continues to make good progress. The Inland Revenue has today published the project's first exposure draft containing draft clauses. Copies have been placed in the Libraries of the House. A number of innovative techniques have been adopted. The rewritten legislation incorporates easier to understand language, a more logical structure and shorter sentences.

I very much support this important project, which aims to bring clarity and certainty in our direct tax legislation for businesses and individuals. Full consultation is the key to its success, and I urge everyone with an interest in tax law to take this opportunity to comment.