§ 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. HOBHOUSEMy 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 MacNEILLAre 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. HOBHOUSENo, I do not think the hon. Member has any right to assume that.
§ Mr. HAZLETONWhy has the Chancellor in bringing in his Budget ignored the findings of the Royal Commission?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEMy 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 MacNEILLYes, but he did not say how it was—
§ Mr. SPEAKEROrder, order, the hon. Member is arguing.