HC Deb 29 October 1998 vol 318 cc242-3W
Mr. Gibb

To ask the Prime Minister (1) if he will make it his policy to veto any EU proposals regarding the harmonisation of income tax rates; [57124]

(2) if he will make it his policy to veto any EU proposals regarding the introduction of a European income tax. [57125]

The Prime Minister

The Government's firm view is that decisions on the rates and structure of income tax should remain a matter for national Governments. Decisions on European tax issues are subject to unanimity.

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

To ask the Prime Minister what proposals for an EU-wide direct tax were discussed at the EU Council meeting in Portschach; and what his response was. [57199]

The Prime Minister

This was an informal meeting of the Heads at Portschach, in preparation for the full European Council in Vienna, at which a broad range of issues were discussed. No formal decisions were taken.

The Government's firm view is that decisions on the rates and structure of income tax should remain a matter for national Governments. Decisions on European tax issues are subject to unanimity.