§ Mr. Stephen O'BrienTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to introduce higher capital allowances to encourage manufacturing investment. [100086]
§ John HealeyThe Government keep all taxes under review and any changes will be made as part of the normal budget process. Since 1997 the Government have introduced permanent 40 per cent. first year allowances for investments in plant and machinery by small and medium sized enterprises. In addition to this, all businesses can obtain 100 per cent. first year allowances for investments in designated energy-saving plant and machinery.