IR591 AND SMALL BUSINESSES

Early day motion 606, tabled 11 February 2004 by Lord Cotter (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 51 members.

That this House condemns the Chancellor's refusal to consult with small firms regarding his announcement on IR591 in the Pre-Budget Report 2003; urges the Chancellor to be open and to publish further details of his plans to 'ensure that the right amount of tax is paid by owner managers of small incorporated businesses'; presses the Government to introduce a proper period of consultation prior to any new legislation that is unveiled; further notes that the Chancellor's excessive tinkering has created an impenetrable maze of taxation law which most small businesses struggle to comprehend; concludes that it would be more sensible to ensure that all forms of income are taxed equally; and therefore calls on the Chancellor to reduce burdens on business by introducing a fair and transparent system of taxation.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 42, Labour 3, Scottish National Party 3, Conservative 2, Plaid Cymru 1.