Clause 42. — (Selective Employment Tax.)

Part of Orders of the Day — Finance Bill – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 27 June 1966.

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Photo of Mr John Pardoe Mr John Pardoe , North Cornwall 12:00, 27 June 1966

That intervention is not very helpful. This has happened as a result of pressure in the country, and I think it is accepted that Liberals have played a considerable part in this. If we have had these major changes in eight weeks, then, with a little extension of the period for digestion, we could hope for even better changes.

As a new Member, I had hoped that a Government with all the brains they have at their disposal would be able to bring in a tax without having to make all these major changes. One wonders why they employ economists at the Treasury. Is there no advice which they can take before a tax is announced? It is an extraordinary position and gives one no great confidence in the Government's ability either to take or to listen to professional advice.

The hon. Member for Oldham, West (Mr. Hale) quoted a saying by "Nye" Bevan, "Establish your principles". I had always supposed that one principle of Socialism in taxation was, "From each according to his ability to pay". It was certainly a principle of the Socialist Party when I was a member of it, but I am aware that the Socialists have lost many of their principles since I left.

I should like further consideration given to the effect of the tax on the regions. Has the Chancellor considered the effect on the regions?