HC Deb 14 March 1884 vol 285 cc1540-1
SIR GEORGE CAMPBELL

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether anything has been done to relieve the poorer classes in Malta of the unequal taxes on food, as recommended by Her Majesty's Commissioner, Mr. Rowsell, some years ago?

MR. EVELYN ASHLEY

Proposals for the diminution of the wheat tax have been brought before the Colonial Legislature; but they have been invariably opposed by the elected Members. In view of the declarations made by successive Secretaries of State, that the official majority shall not be used to override the elected Members in matters purely financial, and of mere local concern, Her Majesty's Government do not think it right to carry these proposals by that majority. The matter must now rest with the people of Malta themselves.