Vol. 453 No. 4
61 Mr. McCreevy asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered the merits of introducing separate Finance Bills to implement budgetary and taxation changes, in view the deadline imposed by the date of the budget. [9416/95]
There are no plans at this time to move to a system of two Finance Bills each year. The proposal for two Finance Bills emanated from the Institute of Taxation as a means of allowing more considered consultation on proposed taxation measures, especially on technical and detailed, but nonetheless important, proposals in the Bill.
I have no problem with wider consultation. To this end, I have agreed to meet the institute each year prior to the Bill. While such consultation is desirable, taxation proposals have to be given effect to expeditiously each year. Two Finance Bills may militate against this and prolong discussion and debate on what many may regard as necessary or welcome changes in tax law. It is surely desirable and in the interest of taxpayers to give effect to such changes as soon as possible each year and within a reasonable period from the budget.
