Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jeremy Hunt and Philip Davies

Tuesday 21st March 2023 Commons Chamber

[Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con)]

1. If he will reduce the overall level of taxation.

[The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Jeremy Hunt)]

Like all Conservatives, I believe in reducing the burden of taxation wherever possible, while always demonstrating a responsible approach to public finances.

[Philip Davies]

While I appreciate that this is largely as a result of the idiotic decision to lock down the country and the economy for the best part of two years, the Chancellor nevertheless finds himself presiding over a high-tax, high-spend, low-growth, quasi-socialist economy. When can those of us who remain Conservatives expect to see some tax cuts and a reduction in the burden of taxation?

[Jeremy Hunt]

I thank my hon. Friend for the inimitable way in which he asked his question. I hope that he was reassured to some extent by the £9 billion cut in the planned level of corporation tax in the Budget, and, if we make the arrangement for capital allowances permanent, as I should like to, that will give us the best investment incentives anywhere in the OECD.