asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what were the levels of direct and indirect taxation in 1979 and at the present time.

Direct taxes, including North sea taxes, were £28½ billion in 1978–79, and the Budget forecast for 1985–86 is £69½ billion. Indirect taxes were £30 billion in 1978–79, and the Budget forecast for 1985–86 is £68½billion.