§ MR. MORTON (Peterborough)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether it is necessary for occupiers to answer the questions, Nos. 4, 6, and 7, on the quinquennial "Return for the Assessment of Rateable Property in the Metropolis for the year 1890;" and, whether he is aware that improper use may be made of answers to these questions, and will the penalty be enforced if the questions are not answered?
§ MR. JACKSONAbout 10 years ago the number and character of the questions were modified. The Treasury cannot interfere with an Assessment Committee in the exercise of their powers to call for information; and I do not see in the questions referred to any demand for information which may not fairly be asked in the interests of the taxpayers at large.
§ MR. HOWELL (Bethnal Green, N.E.)If it is not possible for persons to answer the questions will the penalty be enforced?
§ MR. JACKSONIf the hon. Member wishes to put another question he had better give notice.
§ MR. HOWELLIt is the last part of the question of the hon. Member for Peterborough (Mr. Morton).
§ MR. JACKSONAs the Treasury have no power to interfere with the Assessment Committee, it is obvious that there would be no power to interfere in the case of penalties.