Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Huw Merriman and David Gauke

Tuesday 19th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[Huw Merriman (Bexhill and Battle) (Con)]

T2. Last year, the former Chancellor came to Hastings and committed to extending high-speed rail from Ashford to Hastings and Bexhill. This investment is the key to delivering local housing, a labour market and business expansion. I welcome the Chancellor to his position and ask for his commitment to this vital project.

[The Chief Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David Gauke)]

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. On the particular proposal he sets out, he is a strong champion for his constituents. If he will forgive me, in my new position of trying to control the purse strings all such matters have to be looked at. As I have made very clear, however, the Government are committed to improving transport infrastructure throughout the country, including in Sussex.

Tax Avoidance and Evasion

Debate between Huw Merriman and David Gauke

Wednesday 13th April 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Gauke]

This is a Government that closes loopholes year in, year out, whose actions led to the OECD work on base erosion and profit shifting, that have given more powers to HMRC, that have seen a significant fall in the tax gap, particularly in the context of avoidance, and that have a proud record on dealing with tax avoidance, tax evasion and with all abuses in the tax system.

[Huw Merriman]

This Government, via HMRC, have raised £2 billion since 2010 from offshore tax evasion. Does that not demonstrate that this Government ensure that the tax that should be paid is paid?

[Mr Gauke]

That is absolutely right. I should make some progress with my speech, because it sets out what we have done and what we continue to do.