HC Deb 13 May 1909 vol 4 cc2010-1
Mr. HAZLETON (for Mr. Kettle)

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the estimate of the present taxable capacity of Ireland as compared with that of Great Britain on which his proposals for taxation are founded?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

My right hon. Friend's proposals are not founded directly upon any estimate of the taxable capacity of Ireland as compared with that of Great Britain, but, as explained in his Financial Statement, upon the taxable capacity of individuals and classes of individuals as compared with that of other individuals and classes of individuals irrespective of the part of the United Kingdom in which they may reside.

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Are we to understand that the Chancellor of the Exchequer has left out of consideration the special exemptions and abatements guaranteed to Ireland as to her taxable capacity by the Act of Union and again in 1817?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

No, I do not think the hon. Member has any right to assume that.

Mr. HAZLETON

Why has the Chancellor in bringing in his Budget ignored the findings of the Royal Commission?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

My recollection is that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer pointed out in the course of one of his speeches that the proportion of taxation for Ireland under the Budget is less than before.

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Yes, but he did not say how it was—

Mr. SPEAKER

Order, order, the hon. Member is arguing.