HC Deb 05 July 1904 vol 137 cc641-2
MR. LAMBERT

I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer if, having regard to the inconvenience to the commercial interests of the country, he can state whether he intends to continue or modify his Budget proposals for the taxation of tobacco.

MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

I propose to proceed with the Finance Bill as early as possible. I must defer any further statement as to the tobacco duties until the discussion is resumed.

MR. LAMBERT

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman give a more precise indication of the date than is conveyed in the expression "as early as possible." Does he mean next week?

MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

I must refer the hon. Member to the Answer given by the Prime Minister.

MR. LAMBERT

What was it?

MR. MCCRAE (Edinburgh, E.)

Will the right hon. Gentleman follow the example of the right hon. Gentleman the Member for West Bristol when dealing with the cheque tax, and make a statement before the discussion is resumed?

MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

I have just answered that Question.