National Insurance Contributions Bill

I always love the hon. Gentleman’s interventions as he is defending and promoting the interests and growth of the tax advisory sector—they are magnificent. There is no one who does not get his valued attention, and I hope that he will serve on the Bill’s Committee to add to the enjoyment of Ministers. Does such a form of government by regulation help to explain why our competitiveness has been shrinking, which is a problem that we will increasingly face in years to come? Does the Chancellor believe that our businesses should be tied up by spending more money not on investment and development, but rather on complying with copious Government regulations? Of course illegitimate tax avoidance is unacceptable and should be dealt with, but the context in which many Government regulations are promulgated is making Britain a less attractive place to do business. If business investors are intimidated about setting up business here—due to lack of certainty, or a perception that retrospection will become an increasing part of the culture of doing business in this country—we will ultimately be the losers, so the matter must be treated with more sensitivity for the future economic growth and performance of this country.