Abolition of Aggregation of Income

Part of Orders of the Day — Finance (No. 2) Bill – in the House of Commons at 9:15 pm on 9 May 1988.

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Photo of Dr Mo Mowlam Dr Mo Mowlam , Redcar 9:15, 9 May 1988

I wish that the hon. Lady would notice the distinction which I make. I acknowledge that this is a positive step forward. I have not denied that, either on Second Reading or in Committee. I am fighting this corner because I do not want the fantasy which we have heard from the Financial Secretary portrayed as reality. The hon. Lady says that distinguishing between independent taxation and the married couple's allowance does not change the reality, but it does change it because the allowance is given to the man.

If the allowance were given to either partner, as the Equal Opportunities Commission asked, the EOC and I—and I am sure the Members for Torridge and Devon, West and for Maidstone—would be happier, but it was not. It is not an automatic right. It does not give equality. That cannot be ignored. I should like to continue this discussion, but I am afraid that you, Mr. Walker, will not allow it.