Budget Leak Inquiry

Debate between David Gauke and Alun Cairns

Thursday 22nd March 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Gauke]

I am sure that my hon. Friend is absolutely right. My only query is that I thought it might have been on the television; but if he says it was in a newspaper, I am sure that he is right.

[Alun Cairns (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con)]

In 2005, the Evening Standard covered details of the entire Budget; in 2008, the Daily Mail covered the details of VAT and The Daily Telegraph had details on fuel; in 2009, The Observer covered details on youth jobs; in 2010, there were details on the green investment bank. Would my hon. Friend welcome at least some consistency in policy and practice rather than the lack of constructive opposition that comes from Labour Members?

[Mr Gauke]

I would welcome that consistency, but I do not expect it.

Office of Tax Simplification

Debate between David Gauke and Alun Cairns

Tuesday 20th July 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Gauke]

Yes, the OTS could consider such matters. Essentially, rates will not be matters of complexity and will be entirely for the House to consider. However, the point that my hon. Friend highlights is one that the OTS might well be looking at in its small business review.

[Alun Cairns (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con)]

I am grateful to the Exchequer Secretary for his statement. Will the OTS receive representations from business organisations and individuals who can make a contribution to simplifying the tax structure?

[Mr Gauke]

We will certainly encourage the OTS to take representations. Mr Whiting and Mr Jack are keen to do so and will be establishing consultative committees to provide organisations and businesses with an opportunity to have their say and more generally to engage with businesses. We believe that, in the tax area in particular, it is important that we engage with business. That has been a characteristic of this Government, and we hope to continue to do that.