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Finance (No. 2) Bill

This Government have built a strong and stable economy. It is this Government who are committed to continuing long-term stability and improving the environment in which we live. It is this Government who have created strong public finances and a stable economy, so that the United Kingdom is competitive in the international marketplace, so that families are supported and children lifted out of poverty, and so that there is employment opportunity for all. It is against that background that the Finance Bill introduces further changes to ensure that the British tax system remains fair and responsive to business needs, and maintains the sound economic position created by the Government. The Bill represents the intentions and actions of a Government who deliver, compared to an Opposition who simply posture. I commend it to the House. Question put, That the amendment be made:— The House divided: Ayes 199, Noes 289.