HC Deb 07 July 1909 vol 7 cc1195-6
Lord BALCARRES (on behalf of Sir William Bull)

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he or the Chairman of the Board of Inland Revenue were taking to appoint expert valuers to be ready for their duties when the Finance Bill became law; would they be appointed after a competitive examination; and what would be their status and salaries?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The hon. Member may rest assured that the matter to which he refers will not be overlooked.

Mr. SAMUEL ROBERTS

Have the Treasury made any estimate as to the number of valuers that will be required?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

A general estimate has been made, but not a definite one.

Lord BALCARRES

The question on the Paper asks what steps are being taken.

Mr. HOBHOUSE

It is quite clear that no definite steps, such as the appointment of officers with salaries, can be made until the Finance Bill becomes an Act; but a general estimate and preparations for the work are being made.

Mr. REMNANT

Is it not a fact that already various members of the Valuers' Department of the London County Council have been engaged by the Government?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

Not for the purposes of a general valuation. I am not aware of the fact, but it may be that a particular official has been employed for one particular special duty in connection with the Act, but not for general purposes.

Lord ROBERT CECIL

Is it proposed to communicate to the House the general estimate to which the right hon. Gentleman has referred; if so, when?

Mr. HUGH BARRIE

Are not several officials of the Irish Land Department already virtually in the employ of the Treasury in this matter?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

No, Sir.