asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue which will be raised this year by the tax on fuel oil whether for industrial use or domestic central heating.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fuel Tax Yield.
14.
It is estimated that the excise duty of 2p a gallon on fuel oils, including oils for industrial use or domestic central heating, will yield some £15 million in the year 1976.
Will the Minister state if he has received any complaints from industrial users that the imposition of this penal tax is a deterrent against increasing employment? Will he consider removing it from industrial firms?
The word "penal" is used by many people in relation to any taxation but is inappropriate when one considers the true meaning of the word "penal". I received representations in relation to most taxes that have been imposed but I would not consider that any change in the decisions already taken by the Government in relation to the taking of revenue this year would be justified.
Will the Minister remove the tax?
Among other things, I must consider the innumerable demands that come from the Opposition for more and more expenditure. If we are to try and strike a balance we have to bear in mind the Opposition's anxiety to spend more money.
Will the Minister ever grow up?
I will grow old but the mind will always be alert.