HC Deb 06 August 1907 vol 179 cc1830-1
SIR G. KEKEWICH

I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to recent distraints levied on tradesmen for non-payment of income-tax, and especially to one levied on the goods of Mr. Harry Hems, of Exeter; whether any complaints have reached the Inland Revenue Commissioners as regards the assessment of tradesmen in that city; and whether he will make inquiries with a view to taking steps to avoid such distraints in future.

MR. ASQUITH

I have no information regarding recent distraints upon Exeter tradesmen, nor have the Board of Inland Revenue received any complaints as to the assessment of tradesmen generally in that city. My attention has not been called to the particular case mentioned by my hon. friend, but I will cause inquiry to be made with regard to it. The necessity for distraint appears to me to arise rather from the inaction of the taxpayer than the action of the Revenue authorities, but my hon. friend may be assured that everything which can be done will be done to secure the punctual payment of the tax without resort to extreme measures.

MR. C. E. PRICE (Edinburgh, Central)

Why were these distraints delayed so long in Exeter when tradesmen in Edinburgh had to pay so long ago as 26th February last?

MR. ASQUITH

I know nothing as to the facts.

SIR G. KEKEWICH

If I give the right hon. Gentleman details will he consider the case?

MR. ASQUITH

Certainly.