HC Deb 13 July 1908 vol 192 c416
SIR JOHN BENN

I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state the amount paid to date as income-tax on the profits of the London County Council tramways; and whether, in view of the recent audit by Messrs. Peat and Pixley of the tramways accounts of that body, he proposes to return all or part of the income-tax.

MR. HOBHOUSE

It would be contrary to the express provisions of the Income-Tax Acts to furnish information in regard to any particular assessment.

SIR JOHN BENN

Does the hon. Gentleman propose to return, in consequence of this audit, any money that has been paid in regard to the tramway profits of the London County Council?

MR. HOBHOUSE

No, sir. I do not think the Exchequer proposes to return any money.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

It has no conscience, and, therefore, never pays "conscience money."