§ MR. FIRTH (Dundee)asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether the Wheel Tax was intended to apply to vehicles which never left the works of their owners, and never used the public roads; and, whether the right hon. Gentleman would consider the question of extending the exemption to other persons besides farmers, to whom vehicles were more entirely an implement of trade than to farmers?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. GOSCHEN) (St. George's, Hanover Square)I think the Question is rather one for debate on the Budget proposals. Of course, I will gladly consider all the representations made to me upon the subject. The point which the hon. Member brings to my notice is an important one; but it is not one that can be dealt with in an answer to a Question. I have to receive some deputations from persons interested in these vehicles; and I shall then be able to discuss with them the various objections they have to raise to the tax.
§ MR. CHILDERS (Edinburgh, S.)asked, whether the right hon. Gentleman would have any objection to lay upon the Table the figures relating to those duties which would not affect the Budget strictly, but which he gave in his speech? At present there was no official information on the subject.
§ MR. GOSCHENI am not sure that I entirely apprehend the meaning of my right hon. Friend. Does he mean the details with regard to the Wheel Tax? 723 If so, no statement can be given in detail, except the Estimate. Does my right hon. Friend mean how much is expected to be derived from each tax?
§ MR. CHILDERSYes, Sir; I do mean that. At present we have only got those figures in the speech of my right hon. Friend. I should like to have them as a Return.
§ MR. GOSCHENThese figures have not been given, because it is an important point to bear in mind that the proceeds of these taxes do not affect the Imperial Budget. I should have no difficulty, however, in putting before the House the figures and statements in my Budget Speech referring to these taxes.