Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Ken Purchase (Labour). It was answered on Tuesday, 16 March 2010 on behalf of the Treasury.

Capital Allowances

Question: Does my hon. Friend recall that the polices of the Conservative Government of the 1980s and 1990s meant that it was far more tax-efficient to distribute what should have been retained profits for investment than to retool and re-kit our industry? That was especially true in the west midlands, where we lost a great deal in terms of modernisation. Will she tell us this afternoon that the policy of this Labour Government, which encourages investment, will continue?

Answer: I assure my hon. Friend that we believe that investment is crucial for the UK economy's long-term success. That is why we acted to support business investment during the recession by temporarily doubling the main rate of capital allowance. We support capital allowances—unlike the Opposition, who wish to cut allowances for investment.

Secondary information