Clause 5 - Acquisition of information etc.
Finance Bill
5:30 pm
Mr John Burnett (Torridge and West Devon, Liberal Democrat)
The Liberal Democrats welcome the clause too. I am particularly interested in the comments of the right hon. Gentleman, who has, as usual, illustrated graphically and intelligently the problems that Cargill faces. We want, as I am sure do the Government, greater investment in the manufacture, distribution and sale of a product that is environmentally benign and part of a worthwhile provision in the Bill.
I refer the Financial Secretary to ordinary diesel that can be purchased. Can he tell the Committee about the Government's views on diesel duty? We have a high rate on diesel compared with other European countries, although it has been proven for some years that diesel engines produce lower emissions, they are more durable and one generally gets more miles per gallon from them. Diesel should be encouraged. What do the Government have to say about that in formulating their taxation proposals on diesel?