asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the serious economic consequences of the Government's taxation policy in the Border counties; the plans he has to rectify the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Taxation Policy.
15.
I am fully aware of the difficulties facing the Border counties. In so far as taxation policies are concerned, the high level of taxation in the country generally, not just in the Border areas, is recognised by the Government. We are doing our best to rectify this in the context of the public finances generally. Specifically in relation to excise duties the Government took direct ameliorative action in October 1984 by reducing the level of excise duty on spirits by £1.75 a bottle. Of course problems other than taxation apply in the Border counties, for example, the fall in the value of sterling and the difficulties north of the Border. Another factor is smuggling and the Government are doing all in their power to control this.